T H E N AT U R O PAT H Y P R O F E S S I O N A L S & H E A LT H C A R E M AG A Z I N E
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Herbs for Optimising Athletic Performance
Does Media Change Our Health?
CNM SECTION Harmful Food Additives
SUMMER 2021 ISSUE 3 £5.00 NATUROPATHMAGAZINE.CO.UK
Can We Trust the Science?
Healing with Sound Gong Therapy
How Do Tonic Herbs Work?
VITALISM NATUR AL HEALTH PHILOSOPHY
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T H E N AT U R O PAT H Y P R O F E S S I O N A L S & H E A LT H C A R E M A G A Z I N E
EDITOR Madelaine Winzer
Welcome
TECHNICAL EDITOR Corina Mueller GENERAL MANAGER Carl Newbury
Summer has brought with it a feeling of uncertainty as some individuals soak up the rays in tropical climates, while others are content with a trip to the English countryside to break up the monotony of their schedule. Lockdown gave people the time to self-reflect and question what they wanted from life regarding relationships, careers and lifestyle choices. Health will always be a lifestyle choice worth investing in. Charlotte Palmer looks into the legitimacy of scientific claims regarding health and if we can trust what we are told at face value. Giacamo Sandri lists five popular and well-researched herbal ergogenics that should be in every athlete’s pantry, while Layhing Siu Munro describes how the gong can be used to heal from trauma. This issue has many more great articles that are worth reading. This autumn, Naturopath magazine is on the road for the first time at various events as a media partner and sponsor so come and say hello. Madelaine Winzer
Freelance writer @md_laine
ART DIRECTION/DESIGN Victoria Osborne CONTRIBUTORS Corina Mueller Charlotte Palmer Olivier Sanchez Giacomo Sandri Madelaine Winzer Elle Fox Layhing Siu Munro Ross Danson Emma Gilmore Laetitia Cazauxr SUBSCRIBE ONLINE www.naturopathmagazine.co.uk ADVERTISING SALES CONTACT info@naturopathmagazine.co.uk
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DISCLAIMERS The publisher has taken all reasonable measures to ensure the accuracy of the information in Massage World and cannot accept responsibility for errors in or omissions from any information given in this or previous editions or for any consequences arising thereof. The Editor may not always agree with opinions expressed in Massage World but allow publication as a matter of interest, nothing printed should be construed as Policy or an Official Announcement unless stated. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means whether electronic, mechanical and/or optical without the express prior written permission of the publisher.
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Issue 03 Summer 2021
Issue 3 Summer 2021
Contents 6
Can We Trust the Science? (Censorship and Corruption)
The media plays a vital role in society and how it functions. Charlotte Palmer digs beneath the surface and ultimately makes us question if we can take what we are told by the media and scientists at face value.
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Influence of Media on Health
Madelaine Winzer looks at trends in the media and how they may influence consumers. Are they positive or negative?
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Five Herbs for Optimising Athletic Performance
There are few herbal ergogenics that can give astonishing performance results just by being consumed on their own. Giacomo Sandri has selected five popular and wellresearched ones that should be in every athlete’s pantry.
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The Healing Sound of the Universe
Layhing Siu Munro explains how the Gong can be used to heal trauma. The effects of the gong are unique to each individual and in this article Layhing tells us how the Gong helped her on her journey.
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – Symptoms, Prevention and Cervical Cancer
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How Do Tonic Herbs Work?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract, affecting sexually-active men and women. Olivier Sanchez describes symptoms of HPV, risk factors and different measures individuals can take to help prevent viral infections.
Tonic Herbs provide an array of benefits. In this article, Ross Danson tells informs us of the ways in which tonic herbs may help us improve our overall health.
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Herbal Friends Series
In this issue, Corina Mueller provides a herbal monograph for Linden. She looks at the history, uses and contraindications.
Harmful Food Additives Every Naturopathic Practitioner Should Know About - With client case examples By Elle Fox, ND, CNM Graduate Issue 03 Summer 2021
5
Can we trust Science?
Censorship or Corruption By Charlotte Palmer
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Issue 03 Summer 2021
“Today, science is up on a pedestal, a new God has appeared his high priests conduct their rituals, with nuclear reactors moon probing rocket ships, cathode tubes and laser beams. And their territory is sacrosanct; laymen are denied entry.” Bruce Cathie
F
or many people, the idea of peer review occupies a special even sacred territory; a holy grail in the world of science. A common misconception often openly declared is that one is either “following the science” or “trusting the science.” (in matters of health and medicine). Science has replaced religion for some to the point of dogma. Consider that science has now become the new doctrine. However, with further investigation of suppressed innovations, inventions, effective medical treatments, non-toxic cures etc, it becomes apparent that the peer review system is arguably better at one thing above all others; Censorship. Whether this is censorship of opposing viewpoints or innovations that render favoured dogmas or products, services obsolete and pose economic threats, (depending upon circumstances), regardless the problem is now recognised by many critics as endemic and many scientists have had to learn this the hard way. The defects in the peer review system have been the subject of a profusion of editorials and literature over recent years; clearly, there is a problem and denial won’t solve it, as Dr David Kaplan professor at the Cleveland University tells us “peer review is known to engender bias, incompetence, excessive expense, ineffectiveness and corruption”. A surfeit of publications has documented the deficiencies of this system. As Australian physicist Brian Martin comments on this theme in his excellent article Strategies for Dissenting Scientists; “Certain sorts of innovation are welcome in science when they fall within established frameworks and do not threaten vested interests. But aside from this sort of routine innovation, science has many similarities to systems of dogma. Dissenters are not welcome. They are ignored, rejected and sometimes attacked” - Brian Martin[1] Australian social scientist The failure of peer review has been one of science’s most embarrassing open secrets for some time.
In the spirit of transparency, shouldn’t science be an open playing field of differing opinions to discuss or even publish new theories without suppression? In a fair and ethical world, scientists should be given the platform to speak freely and disagree with the mainstream narrative without fear of censorship, being struck off and losing their medical license or being stripped of funding. An uncomfortable fact is that the law of economics dictates to us that science is reliant upon finance for research and investigation. Given the vital importance of science as an endeavour with strong ethical requirements, we expect the principles to be of the highest standards. Yet science is so dependant and intertwined with financial imperatives and the pharmaceutical industry
questionable in their efficacy but their safety is in question contributing to muscle wastage, weakened immunity and neurological problems.[4] The most profitable industry in the world, ‘the top 10 largest pharmaceutical companies in the world are contributing to exponential growth and driving critical innovation for the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry’ according to industry reports.[5] The global pharmaceutical industry was worth $934.8 billion in 2017 and will reach $1170 billion in 2021, growing at 5.8%. Current estimates that global pharma spending will exceed USD 1.5 trillion by 2023. Science and the pharmaceutical industry have become inextricably
“Death by medicine is a twenty-first-century epidemic, and America’s war on drugs is clearly directed at the wrong enemy.” Dr. Joseph Mercola which is driven by profit and owned by powerful people that it is inevitably compromised on so many levels. “Death by medicine is a twenty-firstcentury epidemic, and America’s war on drugs is clearly directed at the wrong enemy.” Dr. Joseph Mercola Prescription drugs are the third leading cause of death after heart disease and cancer according to PubMed.gov[2] It’s no secret that Prescription drugs kill over 100,000 people each year, half who die have taken their medication correctly and the elderly population are the most at risk due to the unquestioning trust of their doctors’ orders. Medical mishaps are only just the tip of the iceberg. Many medications such as statins; one of Pharma’s biggest cash cows which raked in $29 billion just back in 2013. Despite the inefficiency of statins being well documented[3] not only are statins
linked in the pursuit of innovation and profit but at what greater cost? The pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has paid more than $4.7 Billion in fines for damages and corruption since 2007[6] and yet they have been given the contract for ‘saving the world. And people say they trust the science? This level of wealth in one sector allows a very large amount of power to a very small elite group of people, if science errs and is questioned, you directly oppose and challenge the people in power and their vested interests. Hence why anyone who speaks out or against unscrupulous methods or products are labelled as dissidents and demonised by the industry. If one theory is promoted and one theory suppressed, it is difficult to not conclude that the people in Issue 03 Summer 2021
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power and powerful institutions have a preference about which theory is given prominence. Which potential truth is given the most value? This has now become the accepted norm in society. The electric universe research at world Thornhill states that plainly that the peer review system amounts to censorship. Fellow Independent scientist Gary Novak is also scathing saying that “peer review is a form of censorship that is tyranny over the mind. Censorship does not purify it corrupts….There is a lot of junk science and trash that goes through the peer review process.” Martin also asks; “what do (scientists) have to gain by spending time helping an outsider? Most likely, the alleged discovery will turn out to be pointless or wrong from the standard point of view. If the outsider has made a genuine discovery, that means the outsider
means of discovering the acceptability, not the validity of a new finding, we portray peer review to the public as a quasi-sacred process that helps to make science our most objective truth-teller. But we know that the system of peer review is biased, unjust, unaccountable, incomplete, easily fixed, often insulting, usually ignorant, occasionally foolish, and frequently wrong.” Peer review as a quasi-sacred process that supposedly transcends the foibles and follies of human nature has long since unconsciously taken on sacred ritual status. Has the paper been blessed by the peer review priest? If not then it is epistemologically contaminated. Richard Horton writes that a symposium on the reproducibility and reliability of biomedical research at the Welcome Trust in London, in 2015 where attendees were discouraged from reporting on what was said, discussed
“Corporations increasingly dominate oversight and funding of so-called scientific research.” would win rewards at the expense of those already in the field who have invested years of effort in the conventional ideas.” Commonplace In the scientific community, the influential and powerful on the inside of the old boys club can and do become gatekeepers or threshold guardian of studies for peer review. Dissidents are often demonised by the establishment who are threatened by novelty. Scientists are prone to being attached to their pet theories and opinions. Especially if associated with rewards, status and accolades as a result, who would want to put that at risk after all? Scientists just like all people are given by their egos partially due to their expertise, academic titles, qualifications, and theories. Dr Malcolm Kendrick comments in Doctoring Data[7] “by definition anyone who is an expert in an area of medicine will be a supporter of whatever dogma holds sway. A close study of power dynamics in medicine bears this out and we should never forget the golden rule whoever has the gold, makes the rules” Corporations increasingly dominate oversight and funding of so-called scientific research. Consider the words from the Lancets Editor; Richard Horton; “The mistake, of course, is the thought that peer review was any more than a crude 8
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one of the most sensitive issues in science today: the idea that something has gone fundamentally wrong with science one of our greatest human creations. The case against science is straightforward: much of the scientific literature, perhaps half, may simply be untrue. Afflicted by studies with small sample sizes, tiny effects, invalid exploratory analyses, and flagrant conflicts of interest, together with an obsession for pursuing fashionable trends of dubious importance, science has taken a turn towards darkness. According to Horton, editor-in-chief of The Lancet, a United Kingdom-based medical journal,” the apparent endemicity of bad research behaviour is alarming. At best, telling a compelling story, scientists too often sculpt data to fit their preferred theory of the world or retrofit hypotheses to fit their data.”Vol 385 April 11, 2015, by Richard Horton www.thelancet.com “A lot of what is published is incorrect.” I’m not allowed to say who made this remark because we were asked to observe Chatham House rules. We were also asked not to take photographs of slides. Those who worked for government agencies pleaded that their comments especially remain unquoted since the forthcoming UK election meant they were living in “purdah”—a chilling state where
severe restrictions on freedom of speech are placed on anyone on the government’s payroll. Why the paranoid concern for secrecy and nonattribution? Because this symposiumon the reproducibility and reliability of biomedical research, held at the Wellcome Trust in London last week—touched on one of the most sensitive issues in science today: the idea that something has gone fundamentally wrong with one of our greatest human creations.” One anonymous attendee scientist declared that a lot of what is published is incorrect acknowledging what is termed as science amounts to little more than toilet paper. Horton as the veteran editor of a prestigious scientific journal is scathing he says “the case against science is straightforward, much of the scientific literature, as much as half, may simply be untrue. Studies with sample sizes, tiny effects, invalid exploratory analyses and flagrant conflicts of interests, together with the pursuit fashionable trends of dubious importance this has taken a turn towards darkness”. Poor methods get results as one participant put it. What he is criticising here is not the scientific method but the poorly conducted misleading studies masquerading as real science. Method and facts are two distinctly separate entities. As scientist Jordan Grant states; “Science is simply a method of enquiry the scientific method, natural science, the purpose is to adjudicate the cause in the natural and physical world that’s it, it is simply a method it does not speak it isn’t consensus nor does it have much to do with correlative studies which are most research today. If anyone claims this is scientific and it has not gone through the scientific method then it is a pseudoscience which is what we are seeing taking over the academic stage. Jordon hit the nail on the head here speaking of nails, the herbalist Stephen Behner also makes the point succinctly clarifying linguistic problem here as he says; “Nearly all people in the sciences or its admirers tend to refer to the practice of the scientific method not as a technique or an arena of study but more in godlike terms such as; “ I found an insect new to science..” “We did it for science” in other words linguistically the practice of scientific method is not spoken of as a human pursuit rather as a service to a divine being known as Science which is not a living being it is a tool like a hammer Science is spoken of with
a religious mentality of rampant dogmatism that surrounds scientific endeavour.” A meta-analysis review in the PLOS journal asking how many scientists fabricate and falsify data or commit other forms of conduct came to these conclusions: To standardize outcomes, the number of respondents who recalled at least one incident of misconduct was calculated for each question, and the analysis was limited to behaviours that distort scientific knowledge: fabrication, falsification, “cooking” of data, etc… Survey questions on plagiarism and other forms of professional misconduct were excluded. The final sample consisted of 21 surveys that were included in the systematic review and 18 in the meta-analysis. A pooled weighted average of 1.97% (N = 7, 95%CI: 0.86–4.45) of scientists admitted to having fabricated, falsified or modified data or results at least once –a serious form of misconduct by any standard– and up to 33.7% admitted other questionable research practices. In surveys asking about the behaviour of colleagues, admission rates were 14.12% (N = 12, 95% CI: 9.91–19.72) for falsification and up to 72% for other questionable research practices. Metaregression showed that self-reports surveys, surveys using the words “ falsification” or “ fabrication”, and mailed surveys yielded lower percentages of misconduct. When these factors were controlled for, misconduct was reported more frequently by medical/ pharmacological researchers than others.[8] Considering that these surveys ask sensitive questions and have other limitations, it appears likely that this
is a conservative estimate of the true prevalence of scientific misconduct. Harvard Medical School’s Dr Marcia Angell is the editor in chief at the respected New England Journal of medicine and she is quoted saying; “It is simply no longer possible to believe much of the clinical research that is published or to rely on the judgement of trusted physicians or authoritative medical guidelines. I take no pleasure in this conclusion which I reached slowly and reluctantly over my two decades as an editor of the New England Journal of Medicine” BMJ the corruption and Politicisation of science article[9] Kamran Abbasi wrote: “Science is being suppressed for political and financial gain. Covid-19 has unleashed state corruption on a grand scale, and it is harmful to public health. Politicians and industry are responsible for this opportunistic embezzlement. So too are scientists and health experts. The pandemic has revealed how the medical-political complex can be manipulated in an emergency—a time when it is even more important to safeguard science”. Consider all of this carefully in light of the latest and greatest experimental emergency injections being foisted upon us at high speed, without proof of safety or efficacy. A reminder of Horton’s words about editors who “aid and abet the worst behaviours our love of significance pollutes the literature with many a statistical fairy tale.” Using statistical manipulation the high priests of the church of modern medicine can turn any unfavourable results into apparent life-saving breakthroughs worthy
of the 6pm news they can turn water into wine few laypeople seem to be aware of the various methods of manipulation that the public is a victim of and indeed many professionals seem oblivious of it also. Most experts in mainline medicine are psychologically speaking just engaged in well-paid groupthink in confirmation bias exercises, confirming their ego profitable construction of the world. Many are little more than shills for the pharmaceutical industry. Medicine and science in general to paraphrase the physicist Max Planck; “Science advances one funeral at a time”, once the public has accepted the scientific establishment’s truths, narratives and the designated experts then researchers whose results or methods deviate from the accepted norm can be immediately branded as a crackpot, lunatics, pseudo-scientists and so on no matter how meticulous and rigorous their scientific method and irrefutable their results, the media is crucial in this control of the dynamic because it sells the establishments reality while raging a psychological war against consumers programming them to passively accept the weakest evidence and most illogical arguments and contradictions without question. Big tech platforms have been co-opted into this endeavour. A very good example of this is illustrated by health journalist Lynne McTaggart in her blog Just Do the Math [10] on the censorship of America’s frontline doctors who had discovered an effective and cheap treatment for Covid-19 back in March 2020 but were censored heavily Issue 03 Summer 2021
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by the mainstream media and social media (is it because their treatment is too cheap and does not render massive profit for big pharma?) this excellent article is in the footnotes and worth a read. The mainstream media are highly skilled at pushing a narrative while restraining all of the voices of scientists who disagree with that narrative. The opinions and advice of expert panels rank the lowest on the 7 level hierarchy of medical evidence and yet this is how a large amount of public policy is generated including when so-called epidemics occur whether real or figments of statistical manipulation and bogus diagnostics thus is the politically correct status quo maintained, rocking the boat with unwanted paradigm busters or innovations that can cure diseases such as cancer for example just isn’t how to get
research to be published in its place. Papers that appear to support fashionable ideas or entrenched dogmas are likely to fair well, even if they are flat out wrong. Dr Kaplan states; “Peer review is broken. It needs to be overhauled, not just tinkered with. The incentives should be changed so that others are more satisfied and more likely to produce better work, the reviewing more transparent and honest and journals do not have to manage an unwieldy and corrupt system that produces disaffection and misses out on innovation.” The scientific method was used even in ancient times, but it was first documented by England’s Sir Francis Bacon (1561– 1626) who set up inductive methods for scientific inquiry. The scientific method can be applied to almost all fields of study
as a logical, rational, problem-solving method. Medical science was born of one view from Louis Pasteur and another from a monopolist John D Rockefeller. Is it any surprise that it has become the Frankenstein’s monster it is today? Without question, we do not advance which is one of the fundamental human needs. Consider that without the spiritual, mental and dietary/nutrition facet that is fundamental to the healing process needed to be included in any healthcare regime if we are to have any hope of resolution. Without a more open, inclusive, transparent and holistic approach in science and healthcare, consider one of many dystopian views the film Wall E film paints https://youtu.be/h1BQPViCkU a very sobering thought, isn’t it time we woke up to the corruption and censorship so embedded in the matrix of our healthcare system and mainstream media before it’s too late?
References
ahead in the world of science or mainline medicine. There is no profit to be found in cures. Cures do not generate repeat business. Peer-reviewed censorship exemplifies the need for phobia in the world of science who are there to protect the status quo rather than improve knowledge by weeding out dubious ideas, methods and data, this supposed mechanism of quality control has resulted in the dismissal of not only masses of important highly credible and important research but allows fraudulent 10
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[1] https://documents.uow.edu. au/~bmartin/pubs/98jse.html [2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/25355584/ [3] https://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2015/02/150220110850.htm [4] https://anh-usa.org/the-gravedangers-of-statin-drugs-and-thesurprising-benefits-of-cholesterol/ [5] https://blog.bizvibe.com/blog/ largest-pharmaceutical-companies [6] https://www.dmlawfirm.com/ crimes-of-covid-vaccine-makerpfizer-well-documented/ [7] http://doctoringdata.co.uk/ [8] https://journals.plos.org/plosone/ article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0005738 [9] https://www.bmj.com/content/ bmj/371/bmj.m4425.full.pdf [10] https://lynnemctaggart. com/just-do-the-math/
Charlotte Palmer is an investigative health and environmental journalist with a background in food, nutrition and cooking. Charlotte has over 15 years of experience training in the natural health industry as a food specialist. As a student of Barbara Wren and CNM, Charlotte specialises in questioning mainstream rhetoric, outworn dogmas and current food trends, as a writer, public speaker and as a broadcaster on her podcast platform. https://themothershipconne3.wixsite.com/website www.foodspecialist.co.uk
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Influence of Media
on Health By Madelaine Winzer
People are naturally inclined to be influenced by those around them and the media they are exposed to, therefore preventing them from digging deeper or exposing themselves to cultures that allow them to form their own beliefs that may or not transform into action. And we could say that is where the problem begins whether it is to do with glossy fashion magazines selling a lifestyle or the national news bombarding us with the latest updates on coronavirus. However, that would be too easy. Maybe it is society itself?
90s Grunge and
Youth Culture
It was the decade of Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Sound Garden and Screaming Trees. Glossy fashion magazines promoting models one step away from perfection were replaced with models who sported hollowed cheeks, smudged eyeliner and a waif-like figure that gave the impression of not caring about health. It seemed to be positive at first allowing teenagers to be free from the repression of cultural society and be part of a sub-culture that gave them a feeling of belonging. Boundaries were broken as photographers and brands at the time wanted to connect youth with fashion in a way that blurred the lines between life and art that many people found uncomfortable. Experimentation was on the cards for many young people as they dabbled in the arts and drugs, allowing them to temporarily withdraw from society and their own self-loathing. It was a movement further glamourised by the media with Andrew Groves organising a runway show called Cocaine Nights; white powder covered the runway while the models wore dresses constructed of stainless-steel razor blades. High-end models headed the trend of heroin chic that was documented by Italian Fashion Photographer, Davide Sorrenti, who died in 1997 from a rare blood disorder, thalassemia. When he died the trend ended too – and he captured it beautifully in all its rawness using the language he knew best, mirroring his pain and telling a story of society at the time. Like anything, it was laced with hypocrisy as Kate Moss lost multi-million pound contracts when she was photographed snorting cocaine. 12
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Fitness Becomes
Trendy
There was now a void to be filled. Britney Spears, Gisele and the iPod touch filled it nicely as media took a new form. Gisele Bundchen graced the cover of Vogue in 1999 as she represented something quite different to the models of the 90s. She represented health and opposed the ideals associated with lifestyles of the grunge era. Whether the promotion of health is positive or negative depends on the viewer and how it triggers them. Are they inspired or are they filled with insecurity? It’s an open-ended question. We are, after all, just human with our unique web of experiences spun together which is what makes us who we are. Here and now. It’s time we stopped comparing ourselves to others in the media, or on the street, and say, “Good enough! – I am happy with who I am. I am the one I have to live with”. It is true that individuals are becoming more sedentary through increased use of technology, and the physical impact of that lifestyle takes its toll on the body causing unwanted tension that stays in the body through lack of self-awareness and lethargy. Technology made life so easy that we no longer need to walk to the shop to buy groceries or feel the F.Dick knife slice through meat bought from the local butchers. Life in the West is now lacking sensibility as political correctness replaces a genuine response to the automatic question, “how are you?”. People are scared to express themselves in ‘real-life’ as they fear rejection. It’s reflected in the medicine cabinets of people
Whether the promotion of health is positive or negative depends on the viewer and how it triggers them. Are they inspired or are they filled with insecurity?
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who are covering up problems they haven’t figured out the answers to because they are alienated from their intuition. And I don’t mean all people, some people have problems they need to manage, but there is a form of therapy out there for everyone to help them take a break. Even if it’s only for an evening, they can pass on the melatonin. Models aren’t representing the majority of the population and Instagram influencers aren’t living the life they promote, but they are just doing their job just like the rest of us poor stiffs. They help some people and stir feelings of resentment and insecurity in a lot more. We all have different sides to our personality, some that we like and some we wish we didn’t have, and that’s okay. Who says that we have to be happy all the time? Not a happy camper, I guarantee that! Life is no less a struggle with heartache and weariness, than a celebration of those precious moments of genuine connection and pure joy. Fitness may not be your thing, but it does have positive effects on mental health and physical health.
My Journey with
Perfectionism I won a scholarship to a boarding school at a young age and I was also selected to be part of the British Olympic Talent Squad as I had a couple of National Championships under my belt and was a whizz at maths. My whole life was planned, programmed and predetermined. I would study accountancy at University and train in my spare time. I had this timetable pinned to the back of my door, but that was just part of the Quadrennial plan that was saved on my desktop through Dropbox. I had a food diary, I was weighed in every Monday and, honestly, I was diligent. I wanted to win. I had this unrelenting drive and self-belief that got me out of bed every 14
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morning. I didn’t care about fashion or what guys my friends were dating, I had a passion for something that made the sacrifice of a young girl’s wants and needs worth the time and effort. But like anything with highs come the lows and it came crashing down all at once. A bad bike accident in Hungary involved the death of a guy and that’s when I lost motivation for everything. I think I sat numb through physio with a niggly knee, but deep down that day, I lost a part of myself that I never got back. And there was nobody there to comfort or console me. I was just told to ride my bike. I was 17 at the time and the lack of support from those people - I say ‘people’ because organisations are made up of people who like individuals when they are making money and producing results - but where was the human being that I needed when help was truly needed? Sure, I am not perfect – who is? - and as I become older I have dabbled in a variety of jobs to see what works for me. Unfortunately, people still identify me as an athlete and are fascinated by my life in the world of sport and indifferent to my life as just another person muddling through. It was a long time ago, but there are still things I do if I am feeling anxious or need a lift. Sometimes I ride my Steel Italian Frame around Regent’s Park on a Friday morning before work, others times I book myself in for a massage, while sometimes I meet a friend for a margarita in central. I find life is a mix of discipline and pleasure. I guess that I have learned that one must just make sure that you find what’s meaningful for you and don’t waste your time trying to impress people who will never be satisfied.
Conclusion As people, we love stories as they provide us with empathy and inspiration. Everything we view can be seen as a story whether it is a single shot on Instagram or somebody on Ted giving a talk. What makes certain stories stick in our mind is authenticity and, unfortunately, in this world what we truly want defies logic. Life is messy and we disappoint people along the way. We make mistakes but hopefully, learn from them. We are all works in progress – no plan, no program - and it is wiser to stop thinking about how life should be and just live it as it is. Just remember, online media is there to lure you in. And social media feeds off it. We are mind-fed through algorithms that are brilliantly constructed to fit our needs - only to alienate us from others. Some influencers retain their authenticity while most promote pretty much anything to make money. As individuals we do have the power to control what we swallow and to be empathetic – don’t hesitate to question peoples’ choices or beliefs rather than taking them at face value. Most of all, your own. Madelaine Winzer is a freelance writer who lives in London. After many years racing internationally as part of the GB Olympic Development Squad for Triathlon, Madelaine continues to have a strong interest in health and wellbeing. She has a degree in Sociology and is constantly developing her skills by attending workshops and courses.
@md_laine
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I
developed The Naturopath Range, which is made up of tincture complexes covering the most common conditions that a nutritionist or naturopath is likely come across, but the key is that it presents herbal medicine in a way that is safe and easy to prescribe for your patients, making it very convenient for those nutritionists or naturopaths who do not carry a full herbal dispensary but would like a range of 18 herbal tincture formulas at your fingertips to prescribe for your patients. The Naturopathic Range comes with an easy-to-read support sheet, covering indications, contraindications, herb-drug interactions, and suggested doses, making these herbal formulas safe and easy to use by any nutritionist or naturopath insured to supply herbs to their private patients. I qualified as a medical herbalist in 1999, and completed an MSc degree in Complementary Therapy Studies in 2001. In 2004 I founded Botanica Medica herbal apothecary because I could see how often the lay person chose the wrong herbs for themselves when they bought at a health shop. The result of this sometimes ranged from pretty dangerous, to completely ineffective, as in the case of the lady using Saw palmetto for her leaky bladder. She was convinced that it would work eventually, but I had to say to her, “My dear, I am afraid that Saw palmetto will never work for you because you don’t have a prostate gland”. My herbal apothecaries provided qualified medical herbalists prescribing professional herbal
medicine, quite often over the counter, but always after a brief consultation. During this time, I have also supported naturopaths and nutritionists who want to work with herbs but did not hold their own herbal dispensary. After nearly two decades, I closed those clinics and now work from my apothecary which is in the middle of my physic garden in the rolling hills of the beautiful South Downs national park in Hampshire. My herbs are grown organically, bathed in clean forest air, the peaceful chatterings of wild birds, and overseen by curious horses peering over the hedge. As I work within my garden, I am able to keep a close eye on exactly when the herbs need to be harvested. They are carefully collected by hand, and immediately distilled and macerated, ensuring the highest quality of freshness and vitality. These tinctures are then stored in glass demijohns and dispensed as required. The resulting quality is gorgeous. I don’t sell through my website, the reason being, that I want to talk to each one of my patients and
customers to make sure that they are buying the right product for them, so you will need to contact me by telephone or email, or you can register for your practitioner discount by filling out the contact form on my website, and I will call you directly.
I am offering a significant discount for readers of Naturopath Magazine. Please quote NM2021 for a 31% discount. For further details about the full range, and to claim your discount, email Jo Dunbar on info@botanicamedica.co.uk or register through the contact page on www.botanicamedica.co.uk
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Five Herbs
for Optimising Athletic Performance By Giacomo Sandri
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atural supplements and herbderived drugs that support or enhance athletic performance are defined as ergogenics and they often capture the attention of many athletes seeking to optimise their physical achievements. The reason why some athletes heartfully love them is because ergogenic herbs are nontoxic, have no side-effects, and are therefore disregarded as doping substances by the MHRA. Such supplements are commonly found in health food stores in the form of tablets, drops, beverages or powders and they are usually combined in elaborated formulas alongside a long list of vitamins and minerals. Nevertheless, there are few herbal ergogenics that can give astonishing performance results just by being consumed on their own. Here is a selection of five popular and well-researched ones that should be in every athlete’s pantry.
1. CORDYCEPS (CORDYCEPS SINENSIS AND CORDYCEPS MILITARIS) Cordyceps gained popularity in the Western world after the 1993 Olympic games where three women in the Chinese team broke five running world records; when interviewed, they attributed their success to the daily intake of Cordyceps. A decade later, few studies providing evidence of the efficacy of cordyceps started to appear in scientific journals. A study involving 28 athletes supplementing with a mushroom blend containing Cordyceps showed an outstanding statistical improvement in peak flow, oxygen consumption and time to exhaustion within only three weeks of treatment (1). Another study on elderly athletes aged 50-75 showed a noticeable decrease in lactic acid accumulation and improved optimised oxygen metabolism after 12 weeks of supplementation (2). Moreover, experiments on mice fed with Cordyceps showed an increase in ATP (the body’s energy currency) production and a reduction in free radicals (the toxic byproducts of oxygen metabolism) (4,5). In conclusion, cordyceps is a valid remedy to support endurance activities due to its ability to improve peak flow and promote energy production.
2. KOREAN GINSENG (PANAX GINSENG) In Chinese pharmacopoeia, ginseng root is considered one of the ultimate tonics and is used to manage symptoms such as fatigue, low libido, shortness of breath and premature aging. The mighty compounds synthesized by the ginseng plant which have such broad therapeutic applications are saponins called ginsenosides (5); these compounds have cardioprotective, antioxidant, neuroprotective, immunostimulant and hormone-balancing properties (6,7,8). Ginseng is defined as a stimulant tonic, increasing alertness, cognition and physical energy without inducing jittering. Due to these properties, ginseng might have some applications in enhancing physical performance. In support of this statement, a study showed that supplementation of a gram of Korean ginseng for 14 days showed to effectively reduce perceived exertion during anaerobic exercise and the magnitude of pain/soreness post-exercise (9). Unfortunately, a considerable number of trials carried out on ginseng and athletic performance did not provide much evidence of the effectiveness of ginseng as an ergogenic; nevertheless, most of these studies involved short-term supplementation of ginseng, suggesting that relevant benefits might be obtained after sustained supplementation (10). Issue 03 Summer 2021
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3.SIBERIAN GINSENG (ELEUTHEROCOCCUS SENTICOSUS) Siberian ginseng is a close cousin of Korean ginseng and shares many of its benefits; in fact, some say it’s the most well-researched adaptogen for athletic performance (11). Somewhat like its Korean relative, Siberian ginseng evolved to produce a family of extremely powerful triterpenoid compounds called eleutherosides, which have shown immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, anti-fatigue and blood sugar balancing activities (12,13). It is thanks to the eleutherosides that Siberian ginseng is a notorious tonic for the brain, hormones and muscles; animal and human studies have shown that Siberian ginseng boosts motivation, activation and reward neurotransmitters, which could imply quality of performance via neuromuscular pathways (14). Few other studies on athletes demonstrated remarkable improvements on a metabolic level, showing that Siberian ginseng could be effective at promoting lipid and glucose utilisation while decreasing heart rate and improving oxygen uptake during exercise; probably due to these physiological changes, a study showed that Siberian ginseng boosted the endurance of high intensity exercises up to 23% (12,15). Effects of Siberian ginseng have been observed even at small doses such as 800mg a day and no toxicity has been reported in medical literature, making it a safe herbal ally for boosting physical performance.
4.BEETROOT JUICE
Beetroot is not an exotic remedy like the ones aforementioned, but it is still a relevant one to mention due to its effects on the cardiovascular system. Beetroot pulp and juice are high in inorganic nitrates, compounds that when ingested are converted into nitric oxide (NO), a powerful vasodilator (16). Nitric oxide has a direct positive effect on the utilisation of oxygen and glucose from skeletal muscles, enhancing mitochondrial production of ATP (the energy currency) and supporting the contraction-relaxation processes of the muscle (16). Beetroot juice has been proven effective at optimising energetic economy (the use of O2 in relation to distance travelled) in both experienced athletes and untrained individuals; some scientists postulate that long-term use of beetroot juice can stimulate the biogenesis of new mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouses, therefore supporting the performance of endurance athletes (16). In other words, taking beetroot juice a couple of hours before your performance can increase your output power while using the same amount of oxygen.
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References
5 .SIBERIAN GINSENG (ELEUTHEROCOCCUS SENTICOSUS)
Rhodiola, also known by the fascinating name of arctic rose, is an adaptogenic root growing in semi-hostile habitats such as sea cliffs and mountain peaks. Rhodiola is high in antioxidants, mood-enhancing and adaptogenic compounds such as rosavins and salidrosides that are thought to be responsible for the ergogenic properties of this root (17). Results from studies on the effectiveness of Rhodiola for athletic performance are quite remarkable: four weeks use of rhodiola significantly reduced lactic acid in the bloodstream and promoted muscle recovery (18) while ingestion of rhodiola prior to endurance exercise increased performance outcome (19) and post-exercise mood boost (20). Rhodiola proved to be effective at a dosage as low as of 3mg/kg of body mass (20).
Conclusion
The evidence speaks loud and clear about the ergogenic effectiveness of these herbal remedies. In summary: cordyceps improves lung capacity, Korean and Siberian ginseng decrease perceived fatigue, beetroot juice boosts endurance and rhodiola promotes muscle recovery. Although they are not a substitute to a healthy diet or carefully planned exercise regime, they are valuable allies when it comes to running that last mile or lifting that extra weight.
1 PubChem. “Caffeine.” Nih.Gov, PubChem, 2019, pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ compound/caffeine. Accessed 26 May 2020. 2 Layland, Jamie, et al. “Adenosine.” JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions, vol. 7, no. 6, June 2014, pp. 581–591, 10.1016/j.jcin.2014.02.009. Accessed 6 May 2020. 3 “Discovering Chocolate.” Www.Cadbury.Com.Au, 2020, www.cadbury.com. au/About-Chocolate/Discovering-Chocolate.aspx#:~:text=Christopher%20 Columbus%20is%20said%20to. Accessed 5 June 2020. 4 Baggott, Matthew J., et al. “Psychopharmacology of Theobromine in Healthy Volunteers.” Psychopharmacology, vol. 228, no. 1, 19 Feb. 2013, pp. 109–118, 10.1007/s00213-013-3021-0. Accessed 21 Dec. 2019. 5 Mancini, Edele, et al. “Green Tea Effects on Cognition, Mood and Human Brain Function: A Systematic Review.” Phytomedicine, vol. 34, Oct. 2017, pp. 26–37, 10.1016/j.phymed.2017.07.008. Accessed 28 Oct. 2019. 6Fc, Schimpl, et al. “Guarana: Revisiting a Highly Caffeinated Plant From the Amazon.” Journal of Ethnopharma-cology, 28 Oct. 2013, pubmed.ncbi.nlm. nih.gov/23981847/. Accessed 29 May 2020. 7 Yoquinto, Luke. “The Truth About Guarana.” Livescience.Com, 30 May 2013, www.livescience.com/36119-truth-guarana.html. 8 Moustakas, Dimitrios, et al. “Guarana Provides Additional Stimulation over Caffeine Alone in the Planarian Model.” PLOS ONE, vol. 10, no. 4, 16 Apr. 2015, p. e0123310, 10.1371/journal.pone.0123310. Accessed 8 Sept. 2019. 9 Lutomski, Piotr, et al. “Health Properties of Yerba Mate.” Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine, 3 Apr. 2020, 10.26444/aaem/119994. Accessed 6 June 2020. 10 Teeguarden, Ron. The Ancient Wisdom of the Chinese Tonic Herbs. New York, Warner Books, 2000, pp. 96–110. 11 Leung, Kar, and Alice Wong. “Pharmacology of Ginsenosides: A Literature Review.” Chinese Medicine, vol. 5, no. 1, 2010, p. 20, 10.1186/1749-8546-5-20. Accessed 8 Aug. 2019. 12 Fez Inkwright. FOLK MAGIC AND HEALING: An Unusual History of Everyday Plants. S.L., Liminal 11, 2019, p. 133. 13 Pengelly, Andrew, et al. “Short-Term Study on the Effects of Rosemary on Cognitive Function in an Elderly Population.” Journal of Medicinal Food, vol. 15, no. 1, 2012, pp. 10–7, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21877951, 10.1089/ jmf.2011.0005. Accessed 6 July 2019. 14 Filiptsova, O.V., et al. “The Essential Oil of Rosemary and Its Effect on the Human Image and Numerical Short-Term Memory.” Egyptian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences, vol. 4, no. 2, June 2017, pp. 107–111, www.sciencedirect. com/science/article/pii/S2314808X16301890, 10.1016/j.ejbas.2017.04.002. Accessed 7 May 2019. 15 Habtemariam, Solomon. “The Therapeutic Potential of Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Diterpenes for Alzheimer’s Disease.” EvidenceBased Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2016, 2016, pp. 1–14, 10.1155/2016/2680409. Accessed 1 Nov. 2019. 16 Ulbricht, Catherine, et al. “An Evidence-Based Systematic Review of Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration.” Journal of Dietary Supplements, vol. 7, no. 4, Nov. 2010, pp. 351–413, 10.3109/19390211.2010.525049. Accessed 4 June 2020. 17 Droy-Lefaix, M. T. “Effect of the Antioxidant Action of Ginkgo Biloba Extract (EGb 761) on Aging and Oxidative Stress.” AGE, vol. 20, no. 3, July 1997, pp. 141–149, 10.1007/s11357-997-0013-1. Accessed 24 Apr. 2019. 18 Frawley, David, and Vasant Lad. The Yoga of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine. Delhi, Motilal Banarsidass, 2016, p. 170. 19 Puttarak, Panupong, et al. “Effects of Centella Asiatica (L.) Urb. on Cognitive Function and Mood Related Out-comes: A Systematic Review and MetaAnalysis.” Scientific Reports, vol. 7, 6 Sept. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC5587720/, 10.1038/s41598-017-09823-9. Accessed 6 June 2020. 20 Winston, David, and Steven Maimes. Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief. Rochester, Vermont, Healing Arts Press, 2019.
Giacomo Sandri Giacomo Sandri graduated in Herbal Medicine (BSc Hons) at the University of Lincoln in 2017, and attained a diploma in Holistic massage at the Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork in 2018. He holds certificates in Facial Acupressure, Complete Manual Therapy and FREC3 First Aid. He is also a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalist (NIMH) and Massage Training Institute (MTI). In 2019, he coined the term Naturopathic Massage Therapy, a discipline which combines herbal medicine, nutrition and bodywork to provide a clearer understanding and a tailored deeper treatment to individuals suffering from musculoskeletal and neurological disorders. Giacomo currently practices as a herbalist and massage therapist in Bristol under the business name of Blue Ginkgo offering consultations at the Easton Business Centre and online.
@Giacomosandrimedicalherbalist Issue 03 Summer 2021 19
The Healing Sound of the Universe By Layhing Siu Munro
“The gong is the first and last instrument for the human mind. There is only one thing that can supersede and command the human mind - the sound of the gong. It is the sound of the universe, the sound that created the universe. It is the basic creative sound. To the mind, the sound of the gong is like the mother and father that gave birth. The mind has no power to resist a gong that is well-played.” Yogi Bhajan The gong is like no other instrument in the world as it has the capacity to create a transition from being awake to a deep meditative state in seconds. It works as a tailored medicine attending to your energetic needs. Each experience is unique and the experience can change depending on the state of being for each person alone. The gong is considered a sacred instrument that has been used in rituals in various ancient traditions and practices. Various types of yoga and kundalini yoga in particular, often work with the gong to enhance their practice and our wellbeing at an energetic level. The gong’s vibrations will travel through the body, realigning and harmonising every single atom and unblocking energy locks. The good thing about doing this therapy or meditation is that no physical and meditative skills or experience are required. People with very busy minds who see meditation as an insurmountable task can experience the bliss, peace and clarity that meditation brings to one’s life simply by laying down and listening to the complex sounds and overtones of the gong.
Sound Heals by Traveling Through Anything
Our bodies are an energetic system where atoms vibrate at a certain frequency. The atoms are forming our physical body as our organs and tissues. Our bodies have over 40 litres of water which is 60% of the adult human body. The vibrational effect of the gong will help 20
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1. T he Function of Water in t he Human Body
control the level of water in our systems. (PIC.1) The gong’s vibrations also have an effect on the calcium in our bodies, helping us heal our bones. The deep state of relaxation provided by the gong’s vibrations work through our muscle tissues, helping them get rid of toxins and tensions that sometimes create muscular pain. Our blood also has pyramid-like quartz crystals, that once aligned with the gong’s frequencies will start pulsating, emitting luminous radiations which facilitates the flow of blood through our circulatory system. The gong also helps repair any damage to the neurons’ circuits system, reconnecting neurons more efficiently. The left and right brains will be better synchronised by the gong’s sound, inducing deep relaxation and meditation. (PIC 2) But how does the gong work like no other instrument? Not even Tibetan bowls are capable of taking you to the levels of consciousness such as the gong does.
Listening to the Gong
The sound of the gong is an internal sound. It is the sound of the cosmos, the
stars. It is the sound of the Universe. At some point, when you are receiving gong therapy, your body will stop listening to external sounds and until then you can start listening to your own sound. This is why the experiences when listening to the gong differ from person to person. Each person would certainly listen to a very personal version of it. A well-played gong can generate a complex mix of binaural sounds. These sounds are now well-documented and understood to be beneficial to the human psyche - and perhaps other living forms on our planet. (PIC 3) Gongs can be tuned to different sound frequencies. Some are not even perceived by the human ear. There are planetary gongs that are tuned to the frequency of a certain planet’s orbit around the sun. The planets are related to states of being and certain qualities in us working on these themes to enhance, polish and improve our human experience. Other gongs are tuned to the elements and benefit the balance and the organs associated with these elements in our bodies. There are also symphonic gongs that have the widest range of frequencies. The range of sounds depends on the size and material of the symphonic gong. Finally, the gong can guide us through its complex overtones and frequencies produced to different states of consciousness where we can be healed. Human states of consciousness are classified by measuring the brain’s frequencies.
2. Types of Neurons
•
Beta is our awaken state which is about 12-35Hz
•
Alpha state is a state of relaxation such as sitting peacefully in a garden which is about 8-12Hz
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Theta state, a profound state of consciousness reached during meditation or hypnosis at 4-8Hz
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Delta is a very profound state when we are sound asleep between 0.5 4Hz
•
Gamma state, 35Hz is the state of concentration when we are studying or reading an interesting article
Most Deep Healing Happens in Theta and Delta States
The sounds of the gong will carry you through these frequencies where your being can be deeply healed. Binaural sounds are produced and heard by generating notes or tones below 8-4Hz. These are impossible to hear by humans but can be produced by two different vibrations that are heard by both ears. This will result in the brain creating the lower vibration. For example, the right ear will listen to 110Hz and the left to 100Hz and the brain will create its vibration by the resulting subtraction of both frequencies heard, therefore 10Hz (PIC.4) Since I became a gong master, many of my clients have shared their experiences. Some described an out-of-body experience, deep sound sleep, and physical discomfort that was suddenly released from the body leaving a sense of relief. This was perceived as a psychedelic-like experience with surrealist vivid dreams and sensations, the release of bottled up emotions and sudden cleansing tears. Heaviness was lifted and released, including unlocking of the heart, a sense of real peace and elation, life regressions and the release of anxiety. There was even triggering creativeness and a flow of thoughts that can only be accessed by deep meditation and concentration. Being a gong master I’ve experienced many unexpected situations. Sometimes I feel the gong has pulled me to situations to encounter people who need its magic. My journey in gong healing began after attending a gong bath. It was a time of great sadness for me. I had lost my eldest Issue 03 Summer 2021
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3. Human Hearing Range “I am always surprised that even one session can provide radical changes in the listeners.”
sister and then within months, I lost my 13 year old cat. I was crying every night and not sleeping well. I laid in a far corner of the studio with almost one hundred other people. I thought I might not even be able to hear the gong. But soon after the first stroke of the gong, I had a surreal experience of clearly seeing my cat, sitting watching the gong and then trotting through the bodies towards me began to unfold. I was in tears, calling my cat in my mind, trying not to open my eyes fully as I could just see his fluffy body outlined through my eyelids. My cat sat next to me, attentively watching the gong. As tears rolled down my cheeks, suddenly I felt him climbing on my chest as he used to do. I immediately felt calm as I could feel his warmth and purr on my chest. In no time I switched off into unconsciousness. When I opened my eyes, I felt a sense of deep relief and calmness. I walked towards the gong and promised that
I was going to train as a gong master. That night was the first night in months without tears and insomnia. I have found that gong therapy is very effective in easing grief. I’ve treated many people who have been in great despair after the death of a close relative. I am always surprised that even one session can provide radical changes in the listeners.
Kundalini Yoga and Gong Therapy
I trained as a kundalini yoga teacher before training as a gong master. It was yogi Bajhan, the precursor of kundalini yoga in the West who introduced the gong as a unique healing tool for his students. Kundalini yoga has many kriyas and meditations where the gong plays a central part in the session. Playing the gong and sharing sound healing as a kundalini yoga teacher has provided me with a different dimension.
4. Human Brain Waves
In kundalini yoga, the gong is divided into different zones representing the human body and its chakras. Kundalini yoga treats the human body as a manifestation of energy. It is at this level where the gong delivers deep healing. The seven chakras have their corresponding sound frequencies laid across the instrument. The gong is also used to move prana, lifeforce, through the body and can enhance pranayama exercises during kriyas. The nadis, channels within the body carrying prana, are also visualised on the gong’s surface and worked upon. The gong master must tune in with the gong, reach a meditative space through intuition and deep listening, Suniai, to facilitate a healing experience to the audience. The realisation and experience of the energy systems that bind us, and also connect us to our environments and the universe, helps the kundalini gong masters to fine-tune and be connected to the needs of the audience.
Layhing Siu Munro is a Kundalini Yoga teacher and a sound healing therapist. Her passion for Kundalini Yoga led her to become a gong master. She connects with the unique gong’s vibrations and combines other percussion instruments in order to give depth to her sessions. The visualisation of the sound and patients’ energetic systems is an approach she follows during her therapies. It was through the practice of Kundalini yoga that she found her calling as a healer and therapist. She gives a holistic approach to the healing practices with the use of sound, meditation and yoga to guide her patients and students in a self-healing journey.
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HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS (HPV)
Symptoms, prevention and cervical cancer By Oliver Sanchez
What is
HPV?
Our bodies have been beautifully designed to respond to stress. Without you needing to think about it, your autonomic nervous system is involved in a constant crosstalk with your environment: scanning, assessing and mounting a response in the effort to maintain homeostasis. This intricate system of chemical messengers has been keeping us safe for millennia. At the first hint of danger, the amygdala alerts the brain’s master control centre, setting in motion a hormonal relay from the hypothalamus via the pituitary to the adrenal glands (the HPA-axis). Here, adrenocorticotropic hormone triggers the release of adrenaline and cortisol, priming the body for action. Activated appropriately, this “fight or flight” response is an incredibly potent form of protection for the body. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, stimulates gluconeogenesis and glyconeogenesis for easy-access energy, maintains extracellular fluid volume and blood 24
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pressure and increases mental clarity. In the right quantity, cortisol also exerts a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. This system was perfectly adapted to the acute stressors our ancestors faced. Unfortunately, the drip-feed of stress so ubiquitous in our modern lifestyles encourages chronic stimulation of the HPA-axis. Outside the tightly controlled parameters of optimal function, overstimulation of the adrenals initiates a cascade of downstream issues if left unchecked. Amongst these, excessive cortisol can suppress immune function by halting the production of new lymphocytes in the thymus , affect digestive function, reduce bone formation and impair memory and cognitive flexibility . Upregulated cortisol also favours the conversion of T4 to the inactive form reverse T3, negatively impacting thyroid function and slowing metabolism. It has also been associated with the development of obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and depression.
Important facts Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of viruses that are extremely common worldwide. There are more than 100 types of HPV. 14 types are known to be cancercausing (also known as high-risk types). HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI), with over 40 types being passed through skin-onskin contact. It can affect the genital areas, mouth or throat. In most cases, the body’s immune system is able to fight infection before it progresses into genital warts. Cervical cancer can be caused by sexually acquired infection with HPV, the fourth most common cancer amongst women aged 15–34 years old. There were an estimated 570,000 new cases in 2018 worldwide, and nearly 300,000 associated deaths that year. Cervical cancer can take more than 20 years to develop after infection. Typically, a person may not notice symptoms. Both men and women can carry the virus. In the US alone, 1 person gets cancer caused by HPV every 12 minutes (43,371 yearly).
Risk factors People who are immunocompromised, such as those living with HIV, are more likely to have persistent HPV infections. HPV infections are also common amongst other sexually transmitted agents (e.g., herpes simplex, chlamydia and gonorrhoea). It is important to remember that re-infections are highly common, and so the severity of the infection and associated symptoms more highly-dependent on the state of immune defences at the time. The immune system is often struggling to keep up during times of heightened stress, either due to lower nutrient intake (e.g., malnutrition, crash-dieting, strict calorie-restrictive diets, excessive intake of ultra-processed and nutrient-poor foodstuff), chronic stress (including anxiety and depression), tobacco smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and infections (e.g., colds and flu). This increases the risk of infection, persistent infections and cervical cancer. According to the World Health Organisation, it takes 15 to 20 years for cervical cancer to develop in women with normal immune system. It can take only 5 to 10 years in women with weakened immune systems.
Cervical Cancer
A
comprehensive approach.
The most important component to fight infections is a robust immune system. Therefore, it makes sense to promote a healthy immune response and give the body all it needs to fight infections and promote nutrient assimilation and utilisation. In addition, a healthy gut milieu is necessary to establish robust immune responses; the first line of defence against the external environment. This may not protect from skin-onskin infections, yet it is important to look after your gut to maximise digestive capabilities and absorption of nutrients. For a proper functioning of the body, a strong immune system and antioxidant defences, a wide array of nutrient are required, many of which act as cofactors. In case of antioxidant enzymes, these cofactors may include the coenzyme Q10, vitamins B1 and B2, carnitine, selenium, and often transition metals copper, manganese, iron, and zinc. Deficiencies in the diet will, therefore, have a direct effect on immune defences, as well as enzymatic antioxidant capabilities (naturally-produced to prevent free radical damage). Glutathione and superoxide dismutase offer antioxidant defences. They may, however, become overwhelmed and insufficient due to an inflammatory diet, chronic chemical exposure (e.g., toxicants) and dysbiosis (unbalanced gut microbiome), which may lead to increased gut permeability and widespread inflammation. To prevent infections, it is always recommended to nourish the body with a wide range of deeply-coloured fruits and vegetables. Think rainbow. Try to consume one portion of each every day, organic if possible, to provide an ongoing supply of nutrients with antioxidant activity. Organic lean meat and small fatty fish are also recommended, about one to two portions a week.
HPV Transmission & Cancer
Cervical cancer can be cured if diagnosed in the earlier stages and treated promptly. Two types of HPV (16 and 18) cause about 70% of cervical cancers and precancerous cervical lesions. Vaccines have been approved for use in many countries to protect against these two types of HPV. Approximately 4% of all cancers are associated with HPV. Issue 03 Summer 2021 25
Genital Wart It is also currently recommended by the NHS that girls aged 9–14 years be vaccinated before they become sexually active. Different vaccines may offer protection against different types of HPV. Even ‘perfectly healthy’ women over 30 years old who are sexually active should be screened for abnormal cervical cells and pre-cancerous lesions. A
natural approach
Supplements can support the body in many ways, especially when deficiencies are confirmed. Supplements can have a decisive effect in supporting the immune system and warding off any infection. Many nutrients are involved in the making of immune cells and healthy cells, while many more act as co-factors in immune and detoxification pathways, and so any deficiency will have an impact on all the above and contribute to lower immunity and an increased risk of infection, cellular toxicity, as well as disturbed sleep patterns (deep sleep plays a pivotal role in detoxification. The glymphatic system — the immune system in the brain — is only able to remove toxins and waste during the phases of deep sleep), anxiety and depression. Once infected and diagnosed, it may be possible to support conventional treatment with immune-supporting supplements, particularly those known to modulate and stimulate the immune system. Powerful antioxidants like betacarotene, vitamin C and vitamin E, zinc, selenium, resveratrol, quercetin, as well as glutathione (in its reduced form), in addition to a healthy diet and lifestyle, can help prevent extensive free radical damage and stimulate the immune system — so that immune cells are better equipped to detect virally-infected cells that can sometimes evade immune defences and become virus-producing factories. Compounds that are able to stimulate the activity of 26
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natural killer (NK) cells can help these little soldiers, part of our innate immune defences, find and destroy such virallyinfected cells and abnormal cells. These compounds include vitamins belonging to classes A, B, C, D, and E, polysaccharides, lectins, and a number of phytochemicals like genistein (isoflavone compound found in soybean), curcumin (an active component of Curcuma longa), red ginseng extract, fresh garlic extract, resveratrol, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, a plant used in Ayurveda medicine), and more, already used in cancer research. Medicinal mushrooms have been used therapeutically for millennia and of late have been the subject of great research. Their application seems to be endless and have been used by doctors, naturopaths and health practitioners worldwide. Reishi in particular has been shown to be the therapeutic mushroom of reference in some viral infections (e.g., herpes). Due to their high content in beta-glucans, medicinal mushrooms are proven to help against many viral infections, including: •
parainfluenza and rhinoviruses (common cold)
•
influenza (flu)
•
herpes simplex (HSV-1 and HSV-2)
•
herpes zoster or shingles (Varicella zoster virus)
•
mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus)
•
cytomegalovirus
•
hepatitis viruses, and many more.
Prebiotic fibres and probiotic supplementation is often regarded as the first line of defence against immune dysfunction. Taken together these can help restore a healthy gut microbiome, influencing every mucosal barrier in the body, including the vaginal canal, where infections are very common (e.g., thrush, candida overgrowth). By in their ability to modulate the gut milieu, they directly affects immune responses in the gut, preventing inflammatory responses to spin out of control and exacerbate gut hyperpermeability, and further immune activation in other parts of the body. Micronised zeolite, and chelating agents like chlorella and coriander, can help remove toxins and heavy metals in the gut as well, preventing further immune activation and free radical damage. An
excessive production of reactive oxygen species (free radicals) is known to cause damage to the DNA, proteins, and lipids. Again, a powerful antioxidant complex should be considered to minimise free radical damage and assist naturallyproduced enzymatic antioxidants like glutathione and superoxide dismutase.
References 1. World Health Organisation. https://www.who.int/ 2. Ferlay, J. et al. (2018). Global cancer observatory: Cancer today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today 3. Stelzle, D. et al. (2020). Estimates of the global burden of cervical cancer associated with HIV. Lancet Glob Health. published online Nov 16. DOI:S2214-109X(20)30459-9 https:// www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214109X(20)30459-9/fulltext 4. Lei, J. et al. (2020) HPV Vaccination and the Risk of Invasive Cervical Cancer. The New England Journal of Medicine. 383(14):1340-1348. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1917338. PMID: 32997908. 5. World Health Organization. Global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem https:// www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240014107 6. Alaska department of Health and Social Service. http://dhss. alaska.gov/Pages/default.aspx 7. Crosbie, EJ. et al (2013). Human papillomavirus and cervical cancer. Lancet. 382(9895), pp. 889–899. doi:10.1016/S01406736(13)60022-7 8. Manini I, Montomoli E. (2018). Epidemiology and prevention of Human Papillomavirus. Ann Ig. 30(Suppl. 1), pp. 28-32. doi:10.7416/ai.2018.2231 9. Smith JS. et al. (2007). Human papillomavirus type distribution in invasive cervical cancer and high-grade cervical lesions: a meta-analysis update. Int J Cancer. 121(3), pp. 621–632. doi:10.1002/ijc.22527 10. Stanley M. Pathology and epidemiology of HPV infection in females. Gynecologic Oncology. 117(Suppl. 2), S5-10. 11.Manini, I., & Montomoli, E. (2018). Epidemiology and prevention of Human Papillomavirus. Annali di igiene : medicina preventiva e di comunita, 30(4 Supple 1), 28–32. https:// doi.org/10.7416/ai.2018.2231 12. Crosbie, EJ. et al. (2013). Human papillomavirus and cervical cancer. Lancet (London, England), 382(9895), 889–899. https:// doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(13)60022-7 13. Doorbar, J. et al. (2012). The biology and life-cycle of human papillomaviruses. Vaccine. 30(Suppl 5), F55–F70. doi:10.1016/j. vaccine.2012.06.083 14. Mattoscio, D. Medda, A. Chiocca, S. (2018). Human Papilloma Virus and Autophagy. International journal of molecular sciences. 19(6), 1775. doi:10.3390/ijms19061775 15. Grudzien M, Rapak A. E(2018). Effect of Natural Compounds on NK Cell Activation. Journal of Immunology Research. 2018, 4868417. doi:10.1155/2018/4868417 16. Smyth MJ, et al. (2005). Activation of NK cell cytotoxicity. Molecular Immunology. 42(4), pp. 501–10. doi:10.1016/j. molimm.2004.07.034 17. Gulam, W. Ahsan, H. (2006). Reactive oxygen species: Role in the development of cancer and various chronic conditions. Journal of Carcinogenesis. 5, pp. 1–8. doi: 10.1186/1477-3163-5-1 18. Kraljević Pavelić, S. et al. (2018). Critical Review on Zeolite Clinoptilolite Safety and Medical Applications in vivo. Front. Pharmacology. 9:1350. doi:10.3389/fphar.2018.01350
Oliver Sanchez NTDip rCHNC is a fully registered Naturopath and Nutritional Therapist. He is an expert in stress and stress-related conditions, including the many multifactorial inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. He has undergone intense training in Naturopathic Medicine (includes the learning of TCM, in-depth nutrition, detoxification, homeopathy, the basics of herbal medicine and more. His timely discovery of Naturopathic Nutrition has finally provided the tools he needed to pursue his calling: helping people.
ExquisitePrivateChef
s d n e i r F l a b Her Series
By Corina Mueller
Linden Tree Flowers The Lime tree has its symbolic tradition from Ancient Rome and Greece to Slavic Mythology and is mentioned in the Indian Bhagavad Gita. A 2000-yearold Linden Specimen can still be seen in the UK. Even in Christianity, in particular, in Germany and Eastern Europe, where the tree is dedicated to the Holy Walburga, you can find Linden trees assembled at churchyards.(1)
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Flower: Yellowish/white flower that hangs from a slender stalk in flattened clusters. Each flower has five petals and five sepals. The original five stamens have each developed a cluster and there is a spoon-shaped false petal opposite each true one. (4)
ts medicinal use has its root in the European tradition, indication lies in nervous and heart conditions. Ancient usages included epilepsy and convulsion.(2) From anxiety to nervous palpitation, nervous stomach/vomiting, insomnia due to an unsettled mind over to inflamed tissues and cardiovascular complaints, Linden flowers are particularly useful for the heated person, who needs the benefits of the cooling effect. In Ayurvedic terms that would indicate Pitta aggravation. It is a gentle herb for hyperactive and nervous children and fever control support.(3)
Qualities: Dry secondary cooling effect, warm
Overview
Folk Tales
Common name: Linden, Lime tree Latin name: Tilia x europea – Tilia cordata Plant family: Tiliaceae – Lime family (a hybrid of Tilia cordata and Tilia platyphyllos) Description: Most common are European Lime trees, however, there are other species from North America and Mexico. The tree grows up to 130feet. Leaf: Orbicular in shape with a cuspidate tip, dark green above, paler below, from 2.5-4 inches long with a serrate margin. The tilia Europea has also bracts that are pale green with a long linear shape.
Taste: Sweet, pungent Tissue state: Irritation, atrophy (M. Wood)
Growing up in Germany the Linden Tree was always in sight, I was told it is a tree to rest and restore. Historically, village matters were discussed under the Linden tree(5), to avoid a heated debate. In Germanic mythology the Linden tree was dedicated to the goodness Freya, she held the duties of love, fertility, fortune and truth.
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Polish and Romanian tradition shows that cutting the wood brings misfortune to the offender and their family. On the other hand, planting a Lime tree close to the family house brings good fortune and security. Constituents: Volatile oil, mucilage, tannins • The astringent compound can inhibit blood clotting, reduce blood pressure, decrease serum lipid level and has immune-modulating effects. Phenolic acids • Powerful antioxidant for prevention of chronic disease. Flavonoids • Hesperidin • Quercetin: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory for heart disease, cancer and blood sugar control • Kaempferol: Cardio and neuroprotective, analgesic and anxiolytic • Astralagin: Supports the prevention of atherosclerosis formation Herbal actions: Nervine, anti-spasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, mild astringent, tonic Latest research Research is minimal for Tilia, but certain compounds have sparked interest for early researches.(6) Flavonoids with antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities from the leaves of Tilia argentea – Turkish study 2004. The compounds kaempferol-3,7-O-a-dirhamnoside and quercetin-3,7-O-a-dirhamnoside were isolated from the Silver Linden leaves, to see the antinociceptive and antiinflammatory properties in the treatment of the common cold and bronchitis. The result showed that 50mg/kg compound combination a positive result in mice, with no side effects in the GIT and no toxicity.
Flavonoid Tiliroside present in Tilia species for pain relief A recent in vivo study in 2016, has seen effects in anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive in mice. 100mg/kg of tiliroside was given orally to see the effects on the swelling of paws. The result was 30.6% less pain and 36.9% less swelling.(7)
Contraindications • •
May cause allergies Linden causes a contraindication with iron-rich foods or iron supplements, as it can lower the absorption of iron. Therefore, Linden should be taken separately from food or supplements.
Harvesting
Linden flowers can be harvested in June and July when the flower is in full bloom. The dried flowers should be discarded after an annual cycle. Old flowers will develop a narcotic effect and may produce mild intoxication.
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Herbal Remedies
Lime tree flowers are a wonderful nervine herb, that can be used to calm a nervous and anxious mind and heart. It has sedative actions that calm irritation and heat in the body and mind. With its cooling effect, it acts in all sort of inflammation externally and internally. It is also used for pathological cardiovascular conditions such as High Blood Pressure, Angina Pectoris. Prophylactic against the development of arteriosclerosis and cholesterol build-up. It can also be useful for treating female complaints such as cramps and menorrhagia.(8) Other contraindications for the usage of Tilia according to M. Wood are: • Dark and scanty urine, • mucus in the trachea and lungs(9) External uses: Bark poultice (mixed with milk to make a soothing cream) – for inflamed skin, eg. hives, herpes, shingles, sores.(10) Diaphoretic actions can be used to break a difficult fever with sweating and shivers. For diaphoretic usage, it is best taken in tea form. German tea dosages for fever regulations are 1-2 cups (235-470ml) at bedtime for adults and children over 12 years old. Tincture dosages: 15-30ml per week
My herbal co mbos Blood pressure control: Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Linden (Tilia x), Yarrow (Achillia millifolium) Nervous tension: Linden (Tilia x), Birch leaves (Betula pendula), Rose (Rosa damascene), Lemonbalm (Melissa officinalis), Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) Angina pectoris Tea: Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Motherwort (Leonurus cardiac), Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis). (D. Hoffmann -12 )
1.
The Symbolism of the Linden tree. [online] Available at: https://journal-hfb.usabtm.ro/romana/2015/Lucrari%20 PDF/Lucrari%20PDF%2019(2)/41Tenche%20Alina%202.pdf
2.
M. Wood (2008), The Earthwise Herbal – A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants, North Atlantic Books, Berkeley- California.
3.
A. McIntyre (2005), Herbal Treatment of Children – Western and Ayurvedic Perspective, Elsevier
4.
M. Thomsen and H.Gennat (2009), 4th Edition, Phytotherapy Desk reference, Global Medicine, Australia.
5.
The Symbolism of the Linden tree. [online] Available at: https://journal-hfb.usab-tm.ro/romana/2015/Lucrari%20 PDF/Lucrari%20PDF%2019(2)/41Tenche%20Alina%202.pdf
6.
Flavonoids with antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities from the leaves pf Tilia argentea (silver linden) (2004) G. Toker et al. [online] Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/ S0378874104003769
7.
A Review on the Dietary Flavonoid Tiliroside (2018). D.Grochowisk, et al. [online] Available at: https:// onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1541-4337.12389
8.
Hoffmann, D (1986). The new holistic Herbal. 2nd ed. Dorset: Element Books Limited.
9.
M. Wood (2008), The Earthwise Herbal – A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants, North Atlantic Books,
Corina Mueller Corina is a passionate Herbalist, Iridologist and Ayurvedic Massage Therapist. She has studied and worked in the UK, India, Australia and Germany. In her practice, Corina joins Western and Indian tradition to create a unique experience that can suit each individual. Each consultation is tailored for the needs of the person. Corina will take you on a journey to rediscover your body, mind and soul in a new light. Her clinic is based in Surrey and Central London.
@heal_relax
Berkeley- California. 10. Assessment report on Tilia cordata Miller, Tilia platyphyllos Scop., Tilia x Vulgaris Heyne or their mixtures, Ema.europa.eu. (2021). [online] Available at: www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-report/final-assessmentreport-tilia-cordata-miller-tilia-platyphyllos-scop-tilia-x-vulgaris-heyne-their_en.pdf
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Please get in touch with a registered Herbalist if you like to find out more about preparation, dosage or Herbs in general.
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How Do Tonic Herbs Work? By Ross Danson
A tonic herb, or herbal tonic, is a formula containing different herbs with bidirectional action. Rather than explicitly targeting a body organ or part, herbal tonic aims to maintain the functioning of the entire organ system.
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epending on their types, tonic herbs increase or decrease the body’s metabolism to strengthen, nourish, or restore its functioning. Their purpose is to promote your overall well-being. Many confuse tonic herbs with medicines. But these two aren’t the same. Unlike drugs that cure a specific disorder, tonic herbs act more like a preventive diet. They can be taken regularly even if you aren’t suffering from any illness. Since they nourish your body rather than stimulate it, they are often seen as a balanced approach to lead a healthier life. These slow-acting herbs help a long way to achieve the optimal balance within your body. But how do tonic herbs achieve all this? In the following sections, you’ll find the significant tonic constituents of herbs and discover the ways with which they work together.
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1
. Herbal tonics contain adaptogens that can help
your body handle stress
Herbal tonics contain adaptogenic substances that give them a restorative property and provide a prolonged resistance to occasional stress. The adrenal glands underline your body’s ability to respond to various external and internal stressors. Adaptogens interact with your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to restore the normal tone and function of the entire body. The core action of adaptogens is to prevent the body from overstressing. Overstressing leads to internal consequences that can be harmful to the body. Adaptogens have a normalizing effect on these consequences that prevent the body from reaching a point of collapse. These adaptogens exert an anti-fatigue effect that may improve the body’s resistance to stress and increase mental work capacity. While decreasing mental exhaustion and fatigue, adaptogens also help prevent sleep disturbance, enhance concentration, avert sleep disturbance, and boost immunity to infections. Herbal tonics may have a ‘tonifying kidney’ to balance the entire body structure or a specific function for each organ, be it circulatory, respiratory, or nervous systems. If you are also consumed with negative thoughts or battling stress, you might consider visiting Sunday Scaries that provide quality CBD products. These products are made from 100% natural herbs and are helpful in your fight against stress.
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. Tonic herbs contain astringents
that may balance energy flow
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qi is believed to the vital life force that makes up an individual. It is the binding force that holds the internal system of a human body together. But when the internal organs are weak, Qi is deficient. It causes the essential substances to discharge from the body abnormally through sweating, urination, vomiting, or diarrhea. Older adults and those suffering from chronic diseases often have this disorder. This is where tonic herbs are beneficial. Tonic herbs contain astringent property whose primary function is to stabilize the body fluids and Qi. They bind the exposed mucous membranes and other tissues. Think of astringents as a binding force similar to the tightening of the mouth tissue when having tea or wine. Astringents target the digestive system and treat conditions to prevent excessive discharge of essential elements. They also balance and stabilize the organs by keeping them fixed at their proper positions.
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alterative herbs may provide a balanced and healthy condition
Alterative is another herbal action that increases health and vitality by restoring the proper functioning of the body. Tonic herbs have alternatives, also called blood cleanser or detoxifier, that act on a specific organ to balance the body’s metabolism processes. Like other herbs, herbal tonics with various compositions are suited toward circulatory, respiratory, reproductive, and nervous systems. They may also improve metabolic and natural detoxification processes and help nutrient assimilation.
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. Tonic with nervine herbs may provide
calming effects
Nervines are similar to adaptogens in the way that they are also used to treat stress. But the critical difference is that, unlike adaptogens, nervine herbs act on the central nervous system. Nervine is a herbal tonic action that balances the nervous system. This property might have a calming effect, depending on the individual, uplift their mood, and provide deep relaxation. This action is beneficial to a person suffering from prolonged stress or trauma. If you are experiencing normal muscle tension, worried thoughts, or occasional stress, nervine tonics will provide you relief.
Conclusion Tonic herbs are one of the safest ways to get a long-lasting improvement in your energy levels. They usually don’t have any side effects and should be used over a long period. You might, however, want to check with an expert in case you are on medications and conditions. Tonic herbs provide nourishment to restore or support your overall well-being. Regular consumption of tonic herbs will enable your body to get used to the positive health effects.
Ross Danson Ross is an enthusiast and loves to share her thoughts about the industry for different blogs. Through her words, Ross is working hard to bring the right information about the mostly-misunderstood herbs related products.
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w e i v e R k Bo o BORN TO WALK: Myofascial Efficiency and the Body in Movement James Earls The revised edition of the definitive book on the mechanics, mysteries, and methods of upright walking. James Earles Review By Emma Gilmore Director & Senior Tutor School of Bodywork and specialist in Fascia Informed Bodywork for physical, emotional, and mental health. www.schoolofbodywork.com info@schoolofbodywork.com 07711 656 011 The focus of this wonderful second edition explores the many dynamics that help explain the mystery of why we, as humans, stood up on two legs, and what happens within our physiology to make our bipedal locomotion so calorie efficient. Our energy efficient walking allows calories to be redirected to support our increased brain size. With our brain requiring 20-25 percent of our daily resources it makes perfect sense that we take measures to ensure sufficient food reaches this important organ. Earls explains in further detail, that by looking at the interaction between movement, momentum, gravity and ground reaction force (the force exerted by the ground on a body in contact with it), we can understand our bipedal efficiency. It looks at the timing of muscles firing, what the muscles are doing when they fire, it also builds a deeper understanding of the inevitable interaction between the different body tissues; explaining how the various systems effortlessly interact in function. The skeletal system, fascial system, muscular and nervous systems, work continually in concert with one another to allow for bi-pedal efficiency. With the mechanoreceptors positioned within the fascial system 32
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forming the “computer” which allows walking to be a sub-conscious activity, enabling us to do what we so love - “walk and talk”. Historically the human body was understood to be a series of building blocks and levers, this outdated model stuck until further (relatively recent) research into our wonderful dynamic fascial system gave us a deeper understanding of our bio-tensegrity and functional movement. This book acknowledges the interconnected wholeness of the human body and illustrates how the human body has actually evolved in a completely different manor to the model we once understood to be true. Earls describes a more contemporary and accurate model, that explains how the whole body seamlessly adapts and cooperates with the movement of walking. A model that is far more informative and satisfying, one which shows how we utilise energy-saving mechanisms inherent within our anatomy. Energy efficiency is in part due to our joint alignment and relative straight-leg posture. Earls also clearly demonstrates how our myofascial system captures kinetic energy as strain and re-uses it in return movements. A return of 93 percent of the energy taken to stretch a tendon is amazingly efficient – meaning inly 7 percent of energy is “lost” to heat, friction or noise. Both of these factors create a metabolically efficient mode of stance and locomotion. Earls gives us an understanding of the sense of unity that many of us experience within our own body, as well as the sense of a unified that we can palpate through
the fascial system of our clients. He demonstrates that when the walking system is functioning correctly, with joints aligned, healthy tissues and momentum maintained we walk with pain free, fluid movements & ease; any deviation from the normal means that something has to work harder. However, we humans are very efficient at adapting under stress, our systems find alternative strategies for success, even with the partial loss of brain function or the loss a of limb, we manage to find new pathways to our goals. This book presents a version of what happens when the whole body moves together, how our inherent movement lies within our inherited anatomy. We use our whole body to walk: the pelvis and legs are assisted by the trunk and arms. Our whole body helps balance the movement of walking by increasing and decreasing the forces moving through the soft tissue of the myofascial system, since no one part moves in isolation. The bones and joints assist the body through a controlled pattern of shock absorption, the movement of our joints takes place along predictable lines that send force of impact into the semi fluid streams of the myofascial tissue, allowing for body wide communication. It looks in more detail at interaction between the body tissues and gives deeper understanding of the various systems interact, the skeletal, fascial muscular and nervous systems, works in concert with one another. This edition also includes a lot of new information on science and research, some great new illustrations which assists in digesting more complex information. The book is reorganised in a more accessible way, by planes of movement sagittal, frontal transverse. This false but useful construct builds a visual impression that allows us time to digest the implications of tissue fibre direction and force dynamics in one plane at a time. The reality is that everything happens in each plane all at the same time - we are an integrated whole - however it would be almost impossible to understand this in any comprehensible way. Hence the information is broken down and explained in individual planes, which Earls does brilliantly, making complex information accessible.
In this second edition Earls offers more clarity in the electromyography (EMG) readings – reading which evaluate the health of muscles and nerves that control them – by putting them into context, and by looking at the interaction of movement, momentum, gravity and ground direction force. By looking at the timing of muscle firing and when they are firing, builds a greater understanding of the mechanics of walking. A wonderful, highly recommended read for movement and bodywork therapists of any discipline, offering an understanding of the complexities of gait and its mechanics, as well as new research on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment approaches. This book is perfectly laid out, clear, accessible and informative, offering up to date research and accurate anatomy, for the informed clinician wishing to deepen their understanding of myofascial efficiency. Earls intention with this book, is to give us the tools to seek out energy leakages within the walking system, of clients’ friends or relatives, with the hope that small changes will assist them with their experience of their body; to facilitate a better connection within, as well as with the world around them. This, I feel he has achieved with panache – enjoy. Emma Gilmore is Director and Senior Tutor at School of Bodywork which she established in 2009. www.schoolofbodywork.com info@schoolofbodywork.com Emma teaches Fascia Informed Bodywork for physical, emotional, and mental health. She shares her knowledge of how physical and emotional trauma manifests in our body causing pain, discomfort, and pathologies, as well as the potential for transformative change through bodywork. Emma’s awareness of the delicacy as well as resilience of the human form is always acknowledged and her passion for the benefits of bodywork are enthusiastically transmitted through her national and international teaching in an accessible and engaging way. Emma is head judge at the National Massage Championships 2021, is a founding member of the Fascia Research Society (FRS) and writes regularly for bodywork publications Massage World & Positive Health online. Issue 03 Summer 2021 33
RTT & Clearing The Way To Your Desires
? u o Y r o F t x e N s What’ By Laetitia Cazaux
Do you have goals/projects/ambitions in life but find yourself not taking action towards them? Or maybe you start but give up soon after?
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t’s unfortunately the case for a lot of us who want more out of life but are being held back and feel stuck and frustrated. Not following your heart’s desires is a contributing factor to depression and let’s be honest, we need more people in this world who feel happy and fulfilled with what they do! I’ve got a good insight into this topic as a Rapid Transformational Therapist (RTT). I use this hybrid hypnosis therapy created by the wonderful Marisa Peer to help women achieve high levels of selfbelief and confidence so they can take aligned action on their desires and start creating a life they love. Being held back on your desires can look something like this: procrastinating, finding excuses for not doing what you know you
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need to do to get closer to your goals, ‘curling up into a ball’ at home instead of getting yourself out there, not making yourself visible because you may be rejected or judged or even sabotage opportunities coming your way. If some or all of that is you, chances are you don’t feel you are (good) enough. That belief of not being enough and not loving yourself enough trickles down in every area of your life - from relationships to social interactions, career and finances. And most importantly it affects the relationship you have with yourself. We often keep the worst criticism and words for ourselves whereas we are the one person we can’t spend time apart from!
“Waking up every day of your life with yourself is either a reward or a punishment depending on how you feel about yourself.” Marissa Peer There’s a quote I love which says “Waking up every day of your life with yourself is either a reward or a punishment depending on how you feel about yourself.” - Marisa Peer Loving who you are right now is the foundation for everything else. Without a deep sense of self-belief, self-worth & self-love, you cannot take the right actions towards achieving your goals and start getting the results you want. The good news is you can change the way you think about yourself. It’s not set in stone and you are not stuck with who you believe you are right now. I used to be bullied as a teenager and developed such a low self-esteem and deep self-loathing that I couldn’t speak to people anymore. Social anxiety was skyrocketing high and people teased me for being nearly ‘mute’. I hated myself and my life for many years after that, thinking of myself as being stupid, ugly, unlovable, uninteresting and insignificant. I carried those beliefs with me for around 15 years and even if things started to get better in some areas, I still had a very low image of myself. And I thought: ‘This is it. That’s who I am.’ Well, I was wrong. By diving deep into inner work and later experiencing RTT hypnosis, I changed the image I had of myself, and by changing it, I changed myself. By writing those words, I realised I don’t even recognize myself anymore in that shy, self-loathing, bullied teenager! I healed deep self-love wounds and therefore raised my levels of confidence and worthiness and that gave me the power to go for what I want and feel significantly happier and better with myself. Amazingly, the outside started to mirror what I felt inside in a positive way this time! What we think of ourselves creates a blueprint of who we are which is responsible for our feelings, reactions, behaviours and actions. If you think you’re boring and not intelligent, you’re going to find yourself in situations that reflect that (ie: getting mind blanks, having nothing to contribute to a conversation), if you think you’re not good enough to reach your goals, you’re going stay stuck where you are and not moving forward, and the list goes on! It is not enough to know what you want on a conscious level. Your conscious desires and your subconscious beliefs need to be harmonized otherwise they are conflicting and nothing happens. Once they are in sync, then you’re set to go! How does RTT hypnosis harmonize the conscious and subconscious? You need to acknowledge your limiting beliefs and emotions and get a deep understanding of what created them as you can’t heal what you don’t understand – that’s where hypnosis is very powerful so you can get to the root causes of the belief/issue. We question your subconscious mind during this process to get all the feelings and beliefs you formed there.
Next, we work together to free yourself from those thoughts and beliefs and give you your power back before we get into the rewiring of the mind. There, we upgrade your subconscious beliefs with bespoke positive and empowering ones. Now you can build on steady strong foundations and learn to communicate with your mind so it works for you and not against you. You see, the mind’s number 1 job is not to make you happy but to make you survive and to do so, keep you in what is familiar (whether you’re happy with that familiar or not). The brain has been wired that way for thousands and thousands of years so in tribal times you would naturally feel you needed to stay in your safe group as venturing out could mean being killed by a lion or taken prisoner by an enemy tribe. That’s why rejection is what your mind wants to keep you away from at all cost – if you got rejected/banished from your tribe in those times, you would be out of the familiar and that would most likely mean death. We can see it was useful and still is as that’s the reason why you check the road before crossing or don’t jump off a skyscraper. However, it is also preventing you from getting out of your comfort zone where evolution, growth and reaching your goals reside! The key here is to dialogue with your mind effectively and tell it that it is safe for you to make yourself visible or to say yes to that public speaking opportunity for example, that it is what you want and that it makes you happy. The mind learns by repetition like a child learnt to tie their shoelaces by doing it again and again until it became second nature, so repeat it again and again and feel it until your mind takes it in. I believe you were put onto this planet to thrive, to be happy, fulfilled and follow your dreams and when the heart and the two minds are aligned, you can do anything. So let’s start 2021 with more love for yourself, more freedom from the past and great excitement and belief for the future!
Laetitia Cazaux Laetitia is a certified RTT® therapist working with women to help them believe in themselves so they have the confidence to take action on their desires. She guides her clients to release past wounds and traumas, get rid of limiting beliefs, change repeating negative patterns, get away from depression and anxiety & upgrade beliefs at a subconscious level. This therapy is available online via Zoom.
@yourbesttrueself @besttrueself www.yourbesttrueself.com Issue 03 Summer 2021 35
OIL PROFILE
Jasmine Latin Name: Jasmine Grandiflorum Family: Oleaceae Method of Extraction: Jasmine flowers are very delicate and not suited to steam distillation. Jasmine absolute is therefore obtained by solvent extraction of the flowers,which yields a waxy rich concrete. This concrete is then washed with alcohol in order to produce an oily absolute. An essential oil may then be produced by steam distillation of the absolute. Jasmine flowers are white star shaped with a distinctive perfume. This plant flowers at night and so Jasmine flowers are traditionally harvested in the early morning to ensure the maximum fragrance can be extracted. The plant is an evergreen shrub, found in warm climates such as India but also found in the Mediterranean, especially France. Jasmine absolute is a viscous, orange/ brown liquid and has a captivating floral, rich aroma. Historical Use: Jasmine has been used in perfumery for centuries due to its much prized floral scent. It is claimed to have intoxicating and aphrodisiac properties, and is often used in blends to uplift and improve mood. For massage: Jasmine absolute or essential oil is always expensive and will often be available in a low dilution, pre blended carrier oil. As always take care with this absolute or essential oil and the correct dosage guidelines should be followed. This absolute or the essential oil should only used for massage by qualified therapists. Therapeutic Properties: Jasmine is an anti depressant, and helps counter anxiety and stress. It is also sedative, aphrodisiac, anti inflammatory and can act as a uterine tonic. Other Uses: Jasmine absolute or the essential oil can be used to treat dry skin, oily skin and mature skin, stress, depression and fatigue. Contra- indications: Jasmine absolute or essential oil is generally non toxic and safe, although it may cause sensitisation in some people. Avoid using old or oxidised oils.
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TRAINING PROFESSIONAL SOFT TISSUE THERAPISTS
INDUSTRY LEADING TRAINING in MSK pain and injury assessment, treatment and rehabilitation
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Harmful Food Additives Every Naturopathic Practitioner Should Know About CNM Graduate ELLE FOX is a naturopath, researcher and author with over 30 years of clinical experience and a busy practice specialising in gastrointestinal and behavioural issues. She has served as the Head of Public Relations for the College of Naturopathic Medicine and is the Senior Editor for the Association of Nutrition and Naturopathic Practitioners. Her motto is “Cheap food is Expensive food” and is passionate about supporting local, small-scale, sustainable agricultural practices.
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Issue 03 Summer 2021
P
ick up any pre-packaged food from a supermarket shelf and read the ingredients list; even better, do it out loud. Soon you’ll stumble over at least one unpronounceable word. The food industry not only add hundreds of ‘unpronounceables’ to the food, they also go to great lengths to hide undesirable ingredients (like sugar) under different names, further confusing the issue. As for things that are ‘not on the label’ because they do not have to be declared, more of this later.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
foods
Let’s start with What are “everyday foods”? For the sake of simplicity, I offer some definitions to help us grapple with this vast subject. So, for me, “everyday foods” may include:
•
We use the words “Food additives” for the chemicals deliberately added to foods and drinks for longer shelf life, better taste, visual appeal, etc. Rarely do we consider anything else. But as a naturopath with extensive clinical experience, I can tell you things are not that simple. It’s not just highly processed foods that contain additives with negative health effects. As Naturopaths we are already aware of how chemical additives cause or contribute to many health issues, from allergies to behavioural problems. This article sheds light into substances which we may not even think affect our clients and why clients might not progress as well as we expect them to progress with treatment. Our profession is like a good detective’s: suspect everything, examine all clues and ensure your differential diagnosis is spot-on when supporting clients in their healing journey.
Produce we eat (meat, poultry, fish, game, dairy, vegetables, fruit, grains, legumes, and their derivatives: processed breads, spreads, cakes, biscuits, sauces, sweets, tinned goods, pre-packaged meals and salads, deli meats, cheeses, condiments) – chewing gum is on this list (more of this later)
•
Drinks (dairy, juices, teas and coffees, hot chocolate, alcohol, fizzy drinks, etc.)
•
Medications (both prescription and over-the-counter)
•
Nutritional Supplements
•
Cosmetics, clothes and sanitary products; although not foods, what we put on our skin ends up inside our body and can cause systemic issues. For example, sanitary pads containing cornstarch may cause severe allergic reactions to people with corn allergy – and most people would not connect the two. A rule of thumb: If you can’t eat it, don’t put it on your skin.
From anti-caking agents and flavour enhancers to thickeners and antioxidants, most packaged/processed food and drinks contain additives – as do prescribed/ over the counter medications and many nutritional supplements: sulphites, nitrates, benzoates, citrates, phosphates, sorbates, glutamates. Many are ‘E’ numbers and most have undesirable effects severe enough to make news headlines: “Banned E numbers found in over-thecounter medicines for CHILDREN: Anbesol teething gel and Calpol among 19 products containing colourings linked with hyperactivity, according to Action on Additives.” (The Mirror Newspaper, UK, 22/10/2013).1 Many countries have banned some E numbers. An online search reveals lists of these banned substances along with
their harmful effects and where they are found, so I won’t spend time on them, although I shudder at some of their ‘cute’ alternative names like ‘sunset yellow’ or ‘allura red’ – as if giving them an insipid moniker renders them harmless. The Environmental Working Group: https:// www.ewg.org/, and various smartphone apps like E Checker or E-Inspect, can help you get to grips with Food Additives. However, I have listed below the main groups of additives, their known health impact and where they are found. ‘Declared’ food additives fall into a few broad categories: •
Thickeners and gelling agents add texture to watery concoctions (soups, puddings, yoghurt). Carrageenan (407), used as a thickener in many products (also injected in meats and found in organic foods) can cause gastrointestinal inflammation and bowel disease, triggering an immune response such as when our body becomes invaded by pathogens like Salmonella.2
•
Flavour enhancers improve bland unappetising foods. Monosodium L-glutamate (621) (MSG), added to packaged and takeaway food and some vaccines3,4, is a potent excitotoxin (damages the nerves)5,6,7, can cause numbness/tingling, heart conditions and depression. It may hide in foods as ‘hydrolysed vegetable protein’ (HVP).
•
Colourings make food look visually pleasing; margarine, for example is an unappetising gray-white; the added yellow dyes, annatto and/or cochineal make it look like butter. Annatto (160b) and Cochineal (120) are two of the worst food colourants, implicated in irritability, headaches, hives, sleep disturbances, respiratory conditions and allergic reactions.
•
Preservatives & Antioxidants increase shelf life and reduce rancidity (think Egyptian mummies and you get the idea). Sulphur dioxide (220), commonly added to foods and drinks destroys vitamin B1 and may cause asthma, anaphylaxis, nausea and gut issues. Butylated hydroxyanisole (320) (an antioxidant) Issue 03 Summer 2021
41
is very toxic and has been linked to immune, hormonal, respiratory and skin-related conditions. •
•
Sweeteners are added to improve taste, make things taste sweeter, reduce calorific value and enable ‘low sugar’ claims. Here we find saccharin, various polyols (xylitol, mannitol, etc. - more on these later), aspartame, ace-K, steviol, etc. Some of these are excitotoxins implicated in nerve and brain damage and gastrointestinal issues, to name just a few of their adverse effects. Despite their ‘low-calorie’ claims, most artificial sweeteners do have an (unsuspected by regular consumers and most practitioners) effect on blood sugar fluctuations and contribute to obesity and liver damage.8,9,10,11,12 Emulsifiers and stabilisers stop ingredients from separating and improve food texture. They are chemicals similar to detergents and have been shown to promote gastrointestinal inflammation and colon cancer in mouse models.13
All these chemicals are usually found and eaten in combination; no independent research exists to determine what COMBINED use of such chemicals might do to our gut. Is it surprising that gastrointestinal issues are becoming a massive – and “baffling” – health concern? Besides these chemicals, there are substances added to foods that most people don’t suspect or consider harmful, such as artificial ‘nutrients’ added via food fortification: Food Fortification: “Food fortification or enrichment is the process of adding micronutrients (essential trace elements and vitamins) to food. It can be carried out by food manufacturers, or by governments as a public health policy which aims to reduce the number of 42
Issue 03 Summer 2021
people with dietary deficiencies within a population.” (From Wikipedia).14 So, food fortification offers nutritional benefits to potentially undernourished people. Or does it? Take wheat flour; processing removes a large number of invaluable micronutrients from the final flour which is used to make bread and other baked goods.15 Fortification adds back some of these – but are artificial lab chemicals really nutrients? We are faced with two potentially serious problems: (a) the body struggles to recognise and use these artificial substances, wasting valuable resources it would otherwise employ for repair and healing; (b) these lab-created chemicals can block cell receptors from absorbing the true nutrients, causing further malnutrition – folic acid is a case in point: “Synthetic folic acid supplementation in pregnancy has been implicated in a number of serious problems… and showcases some of the pitfalls of synthetic vitamin food fortification.”16,17,18 Research implicates folic acid and glyphosate present in flour as the real issues rather than gluten per se in “glutensensitive” individuals.19,20,21 Think about it: We process food within an inch of its nutritional life, denude it of vital, real nutrients that our bodies have evolved since primordial times to recognise, then add back questionable chemicals with unknown or harmful effects in a poor attempt to ‘fortify’ it. How can this be viable in terms of nutritional health and environmental sustainability? This is where a Naturopath can make a difference, explaining to our clientele that, (a) synthetic additives are a burden to the body, are not well absorbed and lead to malnutrition; (b) it doesn’t make sense to deplete food and then add to it; (c) food
fortification encourages manufactured, synthetic and GMO food. And a good question to ask a client would be, “Why not just use food in its natural state?” Food Fortification and Food Additives are examined more thoroughly in the College of Naturopathic Medicine’s Naturopathic Nutrition Diploma Course.22 Interestingly, the same ‘science’ which advocates and endorses fortification with artificial ‘nutrients’ demonises nutritional supplements (a great number of which are made from the same chemicals) as useless.23 There is evidence that food fortification may have health impacts24, however, there have been no independent long-term studies on the safety of artificial food fortification. Food Fortification and Food Additives are examined more thoroughly in the College of Naturopathic Medicine’s College of Naturopathic Medicine lecture on Food Additives that is part of the CNM Naturopathic Nutrition Diploma Course. And in a remarkably interesting, if ironic twist, the Irish Supreme Court has recently ruled that the ‘bread’ used by fast food chain Subway is not actually bread because it contains too much sugar.25 Which brings me to another type of food additives which I consider insidious because most of us would not consider them additives: Foodsubstances
as additives
Some ‘food’ substances are used as additives; their addition can have harmful effects on our health – especially in individuals who are on restricted diets due to health conditions such as diabetes. The most common of these are sugar and salt. Sugar is used as preservative and flavour enhancer in numerous foods. You’d think sugar is sugar and that’s it. Well, no. We have come a very long way from the sugar our grandmothers used to make jam. Sugar sleuthing in packaged foods is an art; here’s a very small selection of sugar ‘personas’ in processed foods: sucrose, fructose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, maltodextrin, agave syrup – over 50 different names are used by manufacturers to hide the true levels of sugar in processed foods.26 If you are watching your sugar intake and eat processed, prepackaged foods, you may be in for a few surprises (and undesirable blood sugar fluctuations). Why? Because different types of sugar are metabolised differently by the body; some disturb our insulin
management and cause blood sugar to go haywire; some burden the liver and are converted to fat; all affect the balance of beneficial microorganisms in the gut to some degree. A rise in type II diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), fungal infections, IBS, obesity and cancer are some of the implications of high refined sugar consumption in the modern diet.27,28 Salt (and other sodium-containing substances) is another food substance which is added to foods as a preservative and flavour enhancer. Salt acts as a preservative by altering the availability of water in foods. This means that microorganisms cannot use water as a nutrient (see also further down this article about water in foods). Normal salt is made up of sodium and chloride ions, but like sugar, there are numerous names for sodium-containing chemicals, including: Disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, sodium acetate, sodium ascorbate, sodium benzoate, sodium diacetate, sodium lactate, sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, sodium phosphates, sodium propionate, sodium sulphite, etc. These chemicals appear in many foods including mayonnaise and dressings, tinned and baked goods, cured meats, cheeses, jams and preserves. Beware the ingredients listed on the packet – especially sodium. Even ‘reduced sodium’ foods may still contain more sodium than you’d expect. Sodium is listed as ‘milligrams per serving’, and that may not mean the whole package. If you are on a sodiumrestricted diet and you have a whole tin of chicken soup (let’s face it, most of us would eat more than what is considered one ‘serving’ – another misleading and largely irrelevant notion), you may be eating two or three servings, and so you may be getting a great deal more sodium than you should. According to the WHO, high sodium consumption has been implicated in a variety of health issues including heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.29 Also, some of the sodium-containing chemical compounds mentioned above act in various damaging ways in our body, including destroying vitamin C and potassium balance.
Case:
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Female 52, presented with hot flushes, racing heart, recurrent unexplained ‘itchy rashes’ and ‘restless legs’. GP had warned she was high-risk type II diabetes. Mainly organic diet; sedentary. Weakness for cake, biscuits, tea and craving cold lager. Functional testing revealed low magnesium, chromium, and some B vitamins, high aluminium and mercury as well as GI dysbiosis. She had had metal amalgams removed 7 months previously and her symptoms had escalated a few weeks after that, but she had not connected the two. Was recommended a gentle detoxification diet, transdermal magnesium, a food-state chromium supplement, advanced probiotics and bentonite clay packs. Made good progress over 4 months but kept relapsing. On closer questioning, she said she had been told by a friend to “drink more water” to “help her flush out the toxins” so she had gone from 1.5lt to 4lt a day. She also still drank at least 4 cups of tea daily with 2 sugars each – she could not stop this. She was advised to: (a) sip 1.5-2lt water throughout the day and (b) reduce the sugar in her tea slowly over a period of weeks. She managed to go down to 2 cups with 0.5 tsp sugar each daily in the space of 2 months. Then, suddenly announced she was stopping tea altogether: as her health improved, she had noticed that drinking sugary tea made her worse. Her cravings for lager and other sweet pastries had also diminished. Outcome: Hot flushes reduced greatly in frequency and severity; no racing heart; no rashes; no restless legs. This process took just under a year.
Not on the label:
unsuspected substances in food
I recently read an article about whiteners in chewing gum… Who’d have thought that chewing some wonderfully mint-flavoured, xylitol-impregnated gum to freshen the breath would be a problem? Yet, according to recent research: “A food additive (titanium dioxide nanoparticles - E171) that whitens desserts, drinks and gum could be triggering heart disease, obesity and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Already banned in France, E171 radically changes our gut bacteria, causes colon inflammation and affects liver function.”30 So – heart-stopping stuff, indeed. Plus chewing gum means swallowing minute plastic particles, most deriving from petrochemicals – with unknown consequences: “Manufacturers don’t have to disclose which of the above products31 they use and in which quantities (it will usually just be listed as ‘gum base’) so there’s no way to tell which you’re ingesting.”32 And since I mentioned xylitol: I have already talked about artificial sweeteners and what they could be doing to the gastrointestinal tract, but here is an added note about xylitol and other ‘polyols’ (e.g. sorbitol, mannitol, erythritol). They can be naturally found in small quantities in fruit, vegetables and grains, but as food additives they are artificially produced bulk sweeteners, used to sweeten a wide range of foods, drinks, gums, toothpastes and mouthwashes; some are used as substitutes for sugar in hot and cold homemade drinks, cooking and baking. They
Clarification: when I talk about salt, I mean processed, refined, table ‘salt’, not natural unprocessed salt.
Issue 03 Summer 2021 43
are popular, especially with diabetics and weight-loss regimes because most have low or no calorific value and are not regarded as influencing blood sugar levels (an important consideration with diabetics whose insulin levels need to be tightly controlled). However: some still have calories; they can and do influence blood sugar levels; they may cause other undesirable, unsuspected issues. Some have antibacterial activity and may alter our gut microbiome; hence they are a FODMAP food group. Some have more profound effects: xylitol, for example, appears to disturb protein synthesis in vitro33, is lethal to dogs34 and can cause diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal issues in humans.35,36,37
Water One surprising food additive: unless contaminated with heavy metals, chemicals or pathogens, no one would consider water as a harmful additive to foods. But… If food producers injected water into meat and poultry to keep it looking fresh, plump and moist and increase its weight,38 I would consider this an additive, wouldn’t you? In fact, not only this is a standard practice in the food industry, some producers go the extra mile. According to a Wikipedia entry, in a process known as ‘plumping’, raw 44
Issue 03 Summer 2021
chicken (and other meat) is injected with saltwater, chicken stock, seaweed extract (i.e. Carrageenan) or some combination thereof: “Plumped chicken commonly contains 15% of its total weight in saltwater, but in some cases can contain as much as 30%.”39 Since the price of chicken is based on weight, imagine the extra costs to the consumers and the profits to the industry. And, of course, people on a restricted sodium diet wouldn’t have a clue about the hidden salt (between 200 mg and 500 mg of sodium per serving) in their plump chicken –something that could endanger their health.40,41 The opinion of attorney and food poisoning expert Bill Marler on possible issues with pre-washed produce is eyeopening. He advocates avoiding prewashed and pre-cut fruit and vegetables on the grounds that the more a food is handled and processed, the more likely it is to become tainted. He sticks to unwashed, uncut produce, which he buys in small quantities and eats within three
to four days to reduce the risk for listeria.42 So, in and of itself, water is not necessarily an additive. However, the line is blurred when water is deliberately added to produce (along with other potentially harmful substances not declared on the label) to alter its weight and appearance, or when pre-washing vegetables and salads encourage the propagation of pathogenic organisms whose toxins are definitely undesirable and harmful ‘additives’ in our food.43 And talking about water… a rather large elephant in the room is the quality of drinking water that comes out of our taps. It is a huge topic and I won’t expand on it here. Suffice to say that tap water is shockingly full of undesirable additives including the ‘legal’ poisons we know about (fluoride and chlorine). Local water companies can provide information on fluoridation and also water testing facilities if needed and I urge people to find out this information from their local water supplier. Additives in
medications
Oral medications may contain a variety of additives, including dyes, artificial sweeteners and heavy metals, like copper, nickel, palladium, platinum, rhodium, arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury.44 Drug manufacturers claim that such ingredients are inert, but this is not the case. These additives (variously called excipients) are biologically active; they can cause reactions which are not being picked up during drug trials, simply because the researchers would not consider ‘inert’ substances as causing such reactions and would not look for them or factor them into the trial results. Joshua
IN ASSOCIATION WITH Pottel, one of the researchers at the University of California at San Francisco, involved in research which examined more than 3,000 excipients used by drug manufacturers, said, “…findings endorse anecdotal evidence that excipients may be the culprits of unexpected physiological effects”.45 The team at UCSF discovered that 38 of these substances interact with human enzymes and receptors. The researchers were “astounded” by the virulence of some of these excipients which, having been used in numerous drugs for years, have completely bypassed detection in safety trials until this research at UCSF. ‘Unexpected’ physiological effects indeed. N.B. Some common medications may contain banned E numbers.46 Because the harm these excipients can cause isn’t always immediately obvious47, (and consequently not picked up in the initial phases of trials done with animal models) the damage can go undetected or blamed on other factors. These effects can also be compounded if a patient is on more than one prescription medication – there is no research on what effects the combination of such chemicals would have on the patients (and that’s before we even consider the actual adverse effects of the medications themselves).48,49 In addition to the additives, medications, including certain antibiotics, are considered mitochondria poisons.50,51 Mitochondria are the tiny “power batteries” found in human cells and perform a variety of crucial chemical and These harmful substances in our mouths are not inert; they leach into the food electromagnetic processes vital to life. They are we eat as we chew and swallow, so they become very much undesirable additives that primarily responsible for converting the air we affect our gut and consequently our whole body.57 breathe and the food we eat into energy that our Injectable medications (including some vitamin B12 formulations58, for example), 52,53 cells can use to grow, divide and function. transdermal patches59 and topical applications (e.g. ibuprofen gel, eye drops) may So a Naturopath needs to take into contain additives which can cause seemingly unconnected health issues such as consideration the effect that medications and anaphylaxis60 or respiratory failure.61 their additives can have on their client. The best place to check individual medications for ingredients, excipients and adverse effects is the online Electronic Medicines Compendium: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/. Siblings aged 4 (female) and 7 (male), healthy, normally even tempered I would add here dental metal amalgams and sociable; no history of antibiotics, surgery or trauma; organic diet, (which contain mercury compounds) and white natural healthy upbringing; healthy milestones. Parents were advised dental fillings, (made from fluoride-containing to have the children attend 6-monthly hospital visits to be assessed for BPA): all of these are considered neurotoxins Marfan’s Syndrome (one parent has the syndrome). After the third hospital (substances which damage the brain and test, the parents observed that both children became uncharacteristically nervous system). hyperactive and uncontrollable, and also complained they couldn’t breathe properly after each hospital visit. Staff at the hospital were friendly and • Mercury causes health issues which are no threatening or other unpleasant associations existed in that setting. well documented.54 When the parents mentioned the children’s distress to the hospital staff at the next appointment, it was put down to small children ‘playing up’. The • BPA composite fillings have been found parents approached my practice for support. After careful questioning, it to cause neurodevelopmental issues in transpired that the hospital visit included an eye test where eye drops were 55 children. administered. The eye drops contained substances which are known to • As for fluoride, there is plenty of independent produce some of the symptoms the children exhibited after the visits. evidence to show its detrimental effects on our health.56
Case:
Issue 03 Summer 2021 45
Nutritional
supplements
Many nutritional supplements (especially cheaper, supermarket varieties, but even high-end ones) contain additives and excipients, similar to those in medications (starch, sucrose, talc, povidone [a synthetic polymer used as a dispersing and suspending agent], magnesium stearate [a flow agent that stops pills from sticking together] and a variety of other undesirable fillers with no nutritional value and much potential harm). Many nutritional supplements, even ‘whole-food’ ones, contain synthetic variants of vitamins and minerals in forms which the body cannot process properly. Let’s take folic acid again: unless it is in a form the body can use (such as folate naturally available in food), synthetic folic acid in supplements can harm the health of those with MTHFR genetic mutations. Estimates are that up to 50% of some ethnicities have at least one of those mutation variants. MTHFR is a gene mutation that is relatively common and is common among people on the autistic spectrum.63 A similar issue is encountered with synthetic variants of vitamins A and D which can accumulate in the liver and synthetic vitamin C in its ascorbic acid form: Ascorbic acid exists in two chemical variants which are mirror images of each other: L-ascorbate and D-ascorbate. Most ‘cheap’ vitamin C on the market is not only derived from GM processes but is made of around 50/50 L- and D-ascorbates. However, whilst L-ascorbate is the 46
Issue 03 Summer 2021
beneficial form of vitamin C, D-ascorbate is a gut irritant.64,65 As Naturopaths it is important to do our homework before offering our clients any supplement suggestions: •
Find out if the supplement manufacturer belongs to a big corporation
•
Examine the supplement ingredients
•
Ask the manufacturer questions about these ingredients, what the raw materials are and where they come from
•
Not be misled by terms like ‘wholefood’, ‘natural’, ‘vegan’, etc.
•
Become familiar with terms like MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) and Certificate of Purity (especially in the case of fish oils)
Other
hidden additives
This is by no means an exhaustive list of substances hidden in our food which we do not suspect may be harmful. There are many others and most of these we will never see on the package labels: •
Antibiotics which are fed to both dairy cattle (finding their way into the milk and other dairy products) and to poultry (and we consume when we eat the meat and eggs)
•
GMO feedstuffs fed to animals, whose meat and other produce we consume
•
Colourants and vaccines given to farmed fish – take salmon, for instance. In the wild, a natural diet of krill and shellfish gives salmon its colour, but the farmed salmon available in supermarkets is fed a toxic colour cocktail; without it the
“Dietary carry-over is a term used in food safety that describes the transfer of a feed contaminant to a food product (i.e. the edible tissue of a farm animal). Dietary contaminants that accumulate or biomagnify in the edible part (predominantly fillet in the case of fish)... pose a potential threat to human health. In general, the two main groups of environmental contaminants are Persistent Organic Pollutants [“POPs”] and metals.”
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
fish flesh would be an unappetising grey. Synthetic chemical dyes like canthaxanthin and astaxanthin may be used to colour farm-bred salmon. Canthaxanthin has been linked to aplastic anaemia and loss of night vision. Banned in Australia, is still used in the UK. In its natural form, the carotenoid Astaxanthin, has some health benefits. The synthetic version is made from petrochemicals and not fit for human consumption, yet it is fed to the salmon that we ultimately consume. And all that before we even start talking about all the other contaminants in farmed fish: “Dietary carry-over is a term used in food safety that describes the transfer of a feed contaminant to a food product (i.e. the edible tissue of a farm animal). Dietary contaminants that accumulate or biomagnify in the edible part (predominantly fillet in the case of fish)... pose a potential threat to human health. In general, the two main groups of environmental contaminants are Persistent Organic Pollutants [“POPs”] and metals.” 66,67 •
Pesticides and weedkillers, such as glyphosate, which find their way into the food chain. There is research to show that glyphosate does not break down harmlessly as originally claimed by its maker, Monsanto. Professor Stephanie Seneff, of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, has researched tirelessly for many years glyphosate and its role in autism spectrum disorders and other serious health issues.68 She has repeatedly given dire warnings with regards to its use. Glyphosate has been eventually classed by the WHO as “probably carcinogenic to humans”69 and recent lawsuits in the USA awarded millions of dollars in damages to people who developed cancer as a result of its use.70 Note that glyphosate is also found in vaccines.71,72,73 If ingesting glyphosate causes such harm what does injecting it do?
In
conclusion
There is ample evidence that as naturopaths, we should not only guide our clientele to avoid foods with additives wherever possible and only eat foods in their natural state, but also to look to food and medicine additives as potential causative and maintaining factors in ill health. Buying local, seasonal organic, fresh produce and cooking from scratch with pots and utensils which won’t leach additional harmful substances in the food (such as aluminium, BPA plastics and non-stick particles), appears to be the best option and can help reduce contamination. Supporting small local organic growers and lobbying government to ensure foods and medicines become safer, more environmentally friendly and less toxic, must be the most important considerations for us all – if we believe and aim for a sustainable future.
References
1. Medications containing additives; https://www. mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/banned-e-numbersfound-over-the-counter-2478068 2. The Natural Ingredient You Should Ban From Your Diet; https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/ healthy-eating/a20459777/carrageenan-thenatural-ingredient-you-should-ban-from-yourdiet/ 3. Flumist Quadrivalent – package insert: https:// www.fda.gov/media/83072/download 4. Vaccine Excipient Summary: https://www. cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/downloads/ appendices/b/excipient-table-2.pdf 5. Brain Lesions, Obesity, and Other Disturbances in Mice Treated with Monosodium Glutamate; https:// science.sciencemag.org/content/164/3880/719. abstract 6. Battling the MSG Myth: https://www.msgmyth. com/ 7. Excitotoxins: The Taste that Kills, by Dr Russell Blaylock, book review by Eliza Fulton; https://www.infiniteunknown.net/wp-content/ uploads/2011/07/Excitotoxins.pdf 8. Artificial Sweetener May Disrupt Body’s Ability to Count Calories, According to New Study. (2004, June 30). https://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2004/06/040630081825.htm 9. Artificial Sweeteners Linked To Weight Gain. (2008, February 11) https://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2008/02/080210183902.htm 10. Green, E., & Murphy, C. (2012, November 05). Altered processing of sweet taste in the brain of diet soda drinkers. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/22583859/ 11. Kresser, C., K., Huffman, D., M., S., HamiltonGibbs, R., Snoopy Storey. (2017, March 22). The Unbiased Truth About Artificial Sweeteners. https://chriskresser.com/the-unbiased-truth-
about-artificial-sweeteners/ 12. Strawbridge, H. (2018, January 08). Artificial sweeteners: Sugar-free, but at what cost? https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ artificial-sweeteners-sugar-free-but-at-whatcost-201207165030 13. Food additives promote inflammation, colon cancer in mice; https://www.nih.gov/news-events/ nih-research-matters/food-additives-promoteinflammation-colon-cancer-mice 14. Food Fortification (Wikipedia definition; accessed 08.10.20); https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Food_ fortification 15. White flour missing vitamins and minerals; http:// wholegrainalice.com/2011/07/white-flour-missingvitamins-and-minerals/ 16. How Folic Acid is making us (Very) Sick; https:// www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/folic-acidmaking-us-sick/ 17. Taking too much folic acid while pregnant may put daughters at risk of diabetes and obesity; https://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2015/02/150210083651.htm 18. High folic acid consumption leads to pseudoMTHFR deficiency, altered lipid metabolism, and liver injury in mice https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pmc/articles/PMC4340065/ 19. Is Our Gluten Problem Really a Folic Acid Problem? https://healthhomeandhappiness.com/ gluten-problem-really-folic-acid-problem.html 20. Glyphosate, pathways to modern diseases II: Celiac sprue and gluten intolerance https://www. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3945755/ 21. Is Glyphosate Causally Linked to Coeliac Disease https://www.clinicaleducation.org/resources/ abstracts/is-glyphosate-causally-linked-to-coeliacdisease/ 22. College of Naturopathic Medicine https://www. naturopathy-uk.com/ 23. Getting your vitamins and minerals from diet; https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/ getting-your-vitamins-and-minerals-through-diet 24. Food fortification with multiple micronutrients: impact on health outcomes in general population; https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/ doi/10.1002/14651858.CD011400.pub2/full 25. Subway sandwiches contain ‘too much sugar’ to legally be considered bread, Supreme Court rules; https://www.thejournal.ie/subway-sandwiches5218826-Sep2020/ 26. Secret Sugars: The 56 Different Names for Sugar; https://www.virtahealth.com/blog/names-forsugar 27. High-fructose corn syrup causes characteristics of obesity in rats: increased body weight, body fat and triglyceride levels; https://www.sciencedirect.com/ science/article/pii/S0091305710000614?via%3Dihub 28. “Pure, White and Deadly” by John Yudkin https:// www.bmj.com/content/346/bmj.e8612 29. WHO, Health Topics Fact Sheets, Salt Reduction; https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ salt-reduction 30. Common food additive causes adverse health effects in mice; https://www.sciencedaily.com/ releases/2020/06/200625162252.htm 31. These ‘products’ can be any combination of the following (these are the USA FDA approved gum base ingredients): Butadiene-styrene rubber; Isobutylene-isoprene copolymer (butyl rubber); Issue 03 Summer 2021 47
Paraffin (via the Fischer-Tropsch process); Petroleum wax; Petroleum wax synthetic; Polyethylene; Polyvinyl acetate. Without the jargon, they’re plastics, rubbers, and waxes. Polyethylene is used in plastic bags and children’s toys while polyvinyl acetate is one of the ingredients in the PVA glue we know so well from our school days. None of these ingredients are edible, their safety has never been proven and there is emerging scientific evidence they are harmful to our health and the environment. 32. Did you know that most chewing gum contains plastic? https://metro.co.uk/2018/08/02/knowchewing-gum-contains-plastic-7790722/ 33. Xylitol disturbs protein synthesis, including the expression of HSP-70 and HSP-60, in S. mutans https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11154411/ 34. Xylitol toxicity in dogs; https://vcahospitals.com/ know-your-pet/xylitol-toxicity-in-dogs 35. The dangers of consuming sugar alcohols; https:// www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/avoid-sugaralcohol-for-better-gut-health/ 36. Your Complete Guide to Polyols and Health; https://www.dietvsdisease.org/what-are-polyols/ 37. A Review of Potential Toxicity of Artificial Sweeteners vs. Safety of Stevia: A Natural BioSweetener https://www.iiste.org/Journals/index. php/JBAH/article/view/14218/14526 38. Water-injected meat the latest UK food scandal: https://www.bakeryandsnacks.com/ Article/2004/07/19/Water-injected-meat-the-UK-slatest-food-scandal 39. Plumping (from Wikipedia, accessed 08.10.20) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plumping 40. Beck, Melinda (5 May 2009). “The Fine Print: What’s Really in a Lot of ‘Healthy’ Foods”. Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 17 May 2019 – via www. wsj.com. 41. Phillips, Valerie (24 June 2009). “Valerie Phillips: ‘Natural’ chicken often plumped with salt water”. DeseretNews.com. Retrieved 17 May 2019. 42. Nichola Kinsinger and Sharon Walker, “Is our salad safe? Efficacy of disinfection techniques to decontaminate spinach leaves and reduce cross-contamination.” Study presented at the annual meeting of the American Chemical Society Exposition and Annual Meeting, Aug 19, 2015 in Boston, MA; https://www.marlerblog.com/legalcases/marler-quote-of-the-week-on-bagged-saladand-vegas-swimming-pools/ 43. Water content in meat and poultry; https://www. fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safetyeducation/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/ meat-preparation/water-in-meat-and-poultry/ ct_index 44. Heavy Metals in Drug Products; https://www. contractpharma.com/issues/2015-01-01/view_ features/heavy-metals-in-drug-products 45. The activities of drug inactive ingredients on biological targets; https://science.sciencemag.org/ content/369/6502/403.full 46. Allergenic and banned E numbers in Naproxen: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2635/ smpc#EXCIPIENTS 47. Excipient of medication the probable cause of urticaria in a boy with autism https://journals. sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2042098617717392 48. Inactive Ingredients may not be Inert; https:// science.sciencemag.org/content/369/6502/387.2?rss =1&intcmp=trendmd-sci 49. Inert Ingredients in Drugs Actually Might Have More Effects Than Realized; https://www. uspharmacist.com/article/inert-ingredients-in-
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drugs-actually-might-have-more-effects-thanrealized/preview/uspeditorial 50. Mitochondrial Disorders: Medicines to Avoid https://www.medsafe. govt.nz/profs/PUArticles/June2017/ MitochondrialDisordersMedicinestoAvoid.htm 51. Selected Metabolic Poisons https://www.ruf.rice. edu/~bioslabs/studies/mitochondria/mitopoisons. html 52. Mitochondria – what are they and why are they important to my health; https://www.mitoq.com/ blog/mitochondria-important-health 53. Mitochondria and Fatigue, Dr Sarah Myhill; https://www.theenergyblueprint.com/ mitochondria-and-fatigue-sarah-myhill/ 54. Mercury neurotoxicity; https:// childrenshealthdefense.org/news/mercurytoxicity-highly-toxic-cumulative-and-still-invaccines/ 55. Dental Composite Restorations and Psychosocial Function in Children; https://pediatrics. aappublications.org/content/130/2/e328 56. Fluoride; https://childrenshealthdefense.org/ news/fluoridations-neurotoxicity/ 57. Chewing gum releases mercury into blood and urine; Swedish study retrieved from the Internet Archive: https://web.archive.org/ web/20120922090526if_/http://www.iol.co.za/ scitech/technology/chewing-gum-releasesmercury-in-blood-urine-1.57506#.UF1_aiCnzb0 58. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1051/ smpc#EXCIPIENTS 59. Elleste Solo MX40 micrograms Transdermal Patch https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6351/ smpc#EXCIPIENTS 60. Anaphylactic reaction to povidone secondary to drug ingestion in a young child: https:// onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jpc.13516 61. A case of drug induced lung injury caused by levofloxacin eye drops https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/pmc/articles/PMC6010664/ 62. One carbon metabolism disturbances and the C677T MTHFRgene polymorphism in children with autism spectrum disorders; https://deepblue. lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/73924/ j.1582-4934.2008.00463.x.pdf?sequence=1 63. 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene variants and congenital anomalies: a HuGE review; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/10791559/ 64. Vitamin C - What do you need? http://www. beyondhealthnews.com/wpnews/index. php/2013/09/vitamin-c-what-do-you-need/ 65. Natural Versus Synthetic Vitamin B Complexes in Human; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/ NCT03444155 66. Is the colour added to farmed salmon unsafe; https://www.cleanplates.com/know/nutrition/ dear-clean-plates-is-the-color-added-to-farmedsalmon-unsafe/
67. Environmental contaminants in farmed fish and potential consequences for seafood safety; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/ B9781845692995500020 68. Professor Stephanie Seneff; https:// stephanieseneff.net/ 69. World Health Organisation labels glyphosate probable carcinogen: https://www.ewg.org/ release/world-health-organization-labelsglyphosate-probable-carcinogen 70. California Court upholds verdict in Monsanto Cancer Case; https://abcnews.go.com/Business/ wireStory/california-court-upholds-verdictmonsanto-cancer-case-71890641 71. Lab testing confirms: Vaccines are contaminated with glyphosate; https://www.naturalhealth365. com/vaccines-glyphosate-1973.html 72. Vaccine Calculator: Glyphosate; https://www. vaccinecalculator.com/glyphosate/ 73. Children’s Health Defense: Glyphosate; https:// childrenshealthdefense.org/known-culprits/ glyphosate/
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The team at Evolution101 are excited to announce that the Feet, Fascia and Function Summit is back for 2021 on Saturday 20th November at Regent’s College, Regent’s Park, London. The day is dedicated to exploring everything and anything to do with the feet and human movement – essential elements of any good treatment program. If you have been keeping your eye on the latest trends in therapy, you will have noticed the foot getting more increased attention. This well-deserved spotlight onto the functions and dysfunctions of the foot is coming from many areas of science – evolutionary, sports performance, and investigations into ageing, for example, are all showing the importance of healthy and strong feet.
CONFIRMED SPEAKERS: James Earls, author of Born to Walk will be launching his new book “Understanding the Human Foot” at the summit. With an emphasis on understanding rather than simply rote learning, James will show how each anatomical system (muscle, bone, & fascia) blend into one to unit and produce the miracle that is a functioning, healthy foot.
And we will be welcoming back... Dr Vybarr Cregan-Reid, author of Primate Change and Footnotes, who opened our first ever summit in 2018 to great acclaim, will be exploring the mismatch between the modern world we have built and the environment we evolved from and giving some ideas about how that affects us each and every day. More speakers to be announced shortly…
Shane Benzie, the ‘Indiana Jones of Running’, author of The Lost Art of Running and
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And if that doesn’t entice you, our world-famous goody bags will be back, overflowing with gifts from our amazing partners and every participant will receive a FREE copy of James’ new book - ‘Understanding the Human Foot’
Each Ticket purchase includes a copy of James Earls new book published early Autumn Understanding the Human Foot – An illustrated guide to form and function for practitioners. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/feet-fascia-function-summit-2021-tickets-160522279459 Email us with any questions info@evolution101.co.uk We can’t wait to welcome back old friends and welcome new ones into the EVO101 community.
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