A Spice a Day

Cinnamon has been used as a natural therapeutic for countless centuries. Today, it is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements because it is high in polyphenols, which may help lower glucose levels in those who have type-1 and type-2 diabetes (1). Cinnamon may also reduce one’s chances of developing heart disease, according to research, and may be suitable as an aid for ailments such as menstrual cramps and stomach ulcers. Furthermore, mounting research indicates that consuming cinnamon may lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels (2).

Garlic has much research backing for supporting heart health as well. To that end, Brigham Young University discovered that garlic might decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels by an average of 10% (2). But, garlic’s health offerings do not end there. It also is an excellent source of vitamin B6, manganese and other minerals thanks to its rich organosulfur compounds like allyl sulfides. Organosulfur compounds may account for some of garlic’s best-established benefits such as decreasing cholesterol synthesis in the liver, inhibiting platelet aggregation, stopping inflammation responses, stimulating glutathione synthesis (an important antioxidant) and more (3).

Ginger is notably used to help stomach indigestion, stomach pain and nausea (1). Recent studies point to gingerol (a component of ginger) as working the same as anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin and ibuprofen) by inhibiting an enzyme that causes inflammation (1).

Oregano contains among the highest levels of antioxidants in the spice category. When used as a natural preservative in foods, oregano may inhibit the growth of bacteria and may have similar benefits in the body (1). A study published in Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology outlines the antimicrobial effects of oregano on the bacteria associated with ulcers. In a small animal study, a group taking oregano oil experienced less colitis symptoms, ulcers, abscesses and edema than those that did not. “A few other, smaller studies have proved oil of oregano to positively decrease inflammation from colitis, mortality rate among the rodents, and tissue damage as well as helping to regenerate the livers of rats” (4).

Turmeric (which contains a chemical called curcumin) is another spice that can offer improved health benefits, as it may stop blood cells from fusing together, thus preventing potentially fatal blood clots from forming (5). It may also quell inflammation, which can play a part in the onset of obesity and type-2 diabetes. Drew Tortoriello, M.D., research scientist at the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center at Columbia University Medical Center, and his team investigated the effects turmeric had on diabetic mice (5). It was unearthed that the mice given turmeric were less likely to develop type-2 diabetes and had reduced inflammation levels in their fat tissue and liver (5). Tumeric/curcumin also may be suitable for those with arthritis, colitis, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis and bursitis. Turmeric also has antihepatotoxin, antiprotozoal, antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-fungal qualities.

Thyme contains high levels of antioxidants and a variety of beneficial compounds (flavonoids). Research suggests that the antioxidants in thyme may provide age-related benefits, including helping to maintain heart and cognitive health. A study published in the British Journal Nutrition suggests that thyme may also support brain wellness. One group of rats was given a thyme supplement and another group received a control. The control group did not receive any form of supplementation (6). After the study was completed, researchers analyzed the rats’ brains to determine whether the thyme supplementation produced any positive or adverse changes. Clinicians established that the levels of antioxidants in the brains of the mice receiving thyme were comparable to antioxidant levels of much younger mice (6).

Last, hot red pepper not only gives food an extra kick, but it also contains capsaicinoids that have been studied in supplement form as beneficial for weight management (7). Specifically, hot red pepper extract is said to act as a fat-burning agent, appetite reducer and blood sugar/insulin reducer. These positive effects, according to researcher, resulted in a reduction in body mass among those taking capaiscinoids. WF

References
1. McCormick & Company, Inc., “Spices for Health,” www.mccormick.com/SpicesForHealth/SevenSuperSpices/Cinnamon.aspx, accessed Sept. 10, 2009.
2. M. Karns, “5 Spices with Health Benefits,” Ladies Home Journal,  www.lhj.com/recipes/healthy/eating/5-spices-with-health-benefits/, accessed Sept. 10, 2009.
3. Linus Pauling Institute, “Garlic and Oranosulfur Compounds,” http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/phytochemicals/garlic/#intro, accessed Sept. 18, 2009.
4. L. Endreszl, “Take Some Oregano and Call Me in the Morning,” www.healthnews.com/natural-health/herbal-remedies/take-some-oregano-call-me-morning-2081.html, accessed September 14, 2009.
5. K. Williams, “Ayurveda: Transforming the Face of Natural Healing,” WholeFoods Magazine, 32 (9), 66–67 (2009).
6. HealthyFellow.com, “Rosemary and Thyme for Brain Health,” www.healthyfellow.com/262/rosemary-and-thyme-for-brain-health/, accessed September 14, 2009.
7. OmniActive Health Technologies, “Capsaicinoid and Hot Red Pepper Fact Sheet.”

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, November 2009
“Consumer Bulletin” is reprinted with permission from Whole Foods magazine and is provided for educational purposes only by your local retailer. No part of this article is intended as medical advice. Always consult your health care provider for any medical problems.

Don’t Underestimate Your Prostate

The most common form of cancer among American men is of the prostate, and it kills one man every 13 minutes, if it is not detected early enough for treatment (1). Along with conventional treatment, natural herbs such as saw palmetto and maca are important for prostate health. Holistic urology specialist Aaron E. Katz, M.D., says, “The best treatments from natural health heal more than the prostate issue that lead you to use them. Certain herbs used for prostate health reduce overall inflammation or inhibit prostate cancer” (1).

For example, saw palmetto is well known for its benefits to prostate health. “Use of this plant extract has been shown to be effective in terms of improving urinary flow rate and decreasing residual urine volume. As a result, the patient’s prostate may shrink back to a presumably more youthful state, reducing blockage of the urethra and eliminating symptoms of enlarged prostate without surgery or medical drugs,” according to Katz (1).

Maca also is valuable for prostate health. In a 2009 small animal study, researchers found “red maca reduced prostate weight at 21 days of treatment” (2).

Other important prostate health herbs include pygeum, stinging nettle and cranberry, to name a few.

Up, Up and Away

Between 15 and 30 million American men are affected by erectile dysfunction (ED) (3). Before popping the little blue pill, don’t shut the door on natural remedies that can help you enjoy a healthy sex life again.

Earlier this year, 50 men suffering from mild ED participated in a double-blind clinical trial (2); half were given a maca extract and the other half a placebo. The men that were given the extract “experienced a significant improvement in physical and social performance” (2).

Mario Dell’Agli, a researcher at the University of Milan, led a study on horny goat weed for impotent men. He said, “This could be the natural Viagra. The novelty is that we have synthesized a new molecule that one day may be able to replace Viagra (4). Although more tests are needed, this herb is said to “increase sperm count and semen density in men, and it supports adrenal hormone production in both sexes”(5). And, men reported fewer side effects with this herb than with vitality-increasing drugs. Also, taking ginseng may lead to “improvements in the ability to achieve and maintain an erection” (5). Along with tending to ailments of men, this herb is beneficial for women’s overall sexual health too.

Simmer Down Those Womanly Woes

For women who are self-conscious about their sexual performance and reproductive health, buying sexual health products can be traumatic. But, know that you’re not alone. A survey commissioned by the National Women’s Health Resource Center found that 70% of American women have experienced a sexual health issue (lack of desire for sexual activity, inability to become sexually aroused, inability to have an orgasm or vaginal dryness) (6). So, fire up that sexy feeling and reduce the statistics the natural way. Some women feel uncomfortable having sex because of irritation and vaginal dryness.

Conventional products may irritate skin because they often contain petroleum-based chemicals (7). Natural lubricants, on the other hand, often add moisture without irritation. Common ingredients to look for in these gentle products are vitamin e, aloe vera, yam and chamomile.

Some companies also formulate feminine lubricants with ingredients that increase blood flow for extra stimulation and a warming sensation. Ingredients used to achieve this tingling effect include cinnamon, rosemary, menthol and niacin (7). But, if irritation and discomfort persist, be sure to see your doctor.

For libido, experts say natural testosterone creams can help increase sex drive and improve sexual function in women. Look for creams that don’t contain l-arginine, as this ingredient may cause side effects such as flare-ups of herpes and cold sores in individuals already prone to these viruses (7). In addition, herbs said to improve libido include ashwagandha (to build sexual energy), ginger (to support hormone function), shatavari (to regulate hormone secretion and increase drive), horny goat weed (to restore sex drive), muira puama (to boost libido) and panax ginseng (to improve blood flow and energy).

Having the pleasure to experience and enjoy a healthy and pain-free sex life is essential. Since sex is a natural part of life, integrate natural herbs into your life and let the action begin. WF

References
1. A. Katz, Dr. Katz’s Guide to Prostate Health (Freedom Press, Topanga, CA, 2006).
2. B. Minton, “Maca Restores Sexual Health without Raising Hormone Levels,” www.naturalnews.com/026413_maca_health_sexual_health.html, accessed August 3, 2009.
3. National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearing House, http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/impotence/index.htm#info, accessed August 3, 2009.
4. M. Kahn, “Horny Goat Weed May Offer Viagra Alternative-Study,” www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idINLP52257020080929?rpc=44, accessed August 3, 2009.
5. E. Kamhi, R.N., Ph.D., “The Natural Guide to Great Sex” (Godsfield Press LTD, Hampshire, U.K., 2004).
6. R. Preidt, “Women’s Sexual Health Issues Hit Home,” HealthDay News, http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=101481, updated June 25, 2009, accessed August 3, 2009.
7. “Waking the Sleeping Aphrodite Within,” WholeFoods Magazine, 30 (7), 43–45 (2007).

Published in WholeFoods Magazine, September 2009
“Consumer Bulletin” is reprinted with permission from Whole Foods magazine and is provided for educational purposes only by your local retailer. No part of this article is intended as medical advice. Always consult your health care provider for any medical problems.