Heart Disease, Herbs and Spices

The principal pathology underlying the occurrence of cardiovascular disease is atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Initially this process causes blood vessel narrowing but the subsequent rupture of an atheromatous deposit into the lumen of a coronary or cerebral artery usually results in a heart attack or thrombotic stroke respectively. 

Although the precise mechanisms associated with plaque development have not been fully elucidated some of these processes, and their associated risk factors, are well understood. Central to the atherosclerotic process are two principal factors: 

1) The oxidation and deposition of lipids in the endothelial lining of blood vessels 

2) An insidious inflammatory process that leads to calcification of the atheromatous deposits and the eventual rupture of these plaques into the lumens of blood vessels. 

Specific factors known to accelerate atherosclerosis are generally well-known and include smoking, a diet rich in saturated fats, obesity, lack of exercise and a minimal intake of appropriate phytonutrients. Unfortunately the last factor has not really received the attention that it deserves as we are often (quite rightly) too busy eliminating the adverse factors from our diet to focus on the foods that can help to negate many of the environmental risk factors to which we are exposed. 

Apart from food-derived substances such as omega-3 fatty acids, other unsaturated fats and dietary fibre there are a number of compounds found in plant foods that are potent inhibitors of atherosclerosis. There are also several categories of phytonutrients that inhibit platelet aggregation - the abnormal clotting process that aggravates thrombus formation in heart attacks and thrombotic strokes. 

Culinary herbs and spices probably contain the widest, most effective cardiovascular-protective compounds of all food categories - their specific actions are summarized here: 

Blood pressure control: Garlic, fenugreek 

Lower LDL (bad) cholesterol: Caper, coriander, cinnamon, fenugreek, garlic, ginger 

Raise HDL (good) cholesterol): Fenugreek 

Lower homocysteine levels: Mustard, wasabi, horseradish 

Anti-inflammatory: Bay leaf, garlic, ginger, oregano, rosemary, thyme, turmeric 

Inhibit platelet aggregation: Clove, ginger, onion, oregano, rosemary, thyme 

One can see that the above list includes at least 10 different culinary herbs and spices - some of which have more than one action. That is why it is important to eat as many of them as possible. Many people make the mistake of assuming that, by eating large quantities of a single spice (garlic, quite rightly, is well-known as a heart-friendly spice), they will protect themselves against cardiovascular disease. While this is true up to a point it is far more important to eat a range of spices as their actions often complement one another through the synergistic relationships that often exist between these valuable foods. 

To benefit from the cardio-protective effects of herbs and spices we should eat as many of those mentioned in this article as possible. In addition it would be wise for us to include a range of other herbs and spice in our recipes. 

Safety note: Although spices are very safe, if you are planning to substantially increase your intake of these foods and are on medications such as coumadin (warfarin) and others, it is important to check with your health care provider before doing so. 

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Top 10 Male Enhancement Herbs

Last time I was at a local Walgreens I noticed that they carry hundreds of different herbs that claim to do amazing things. If I was to take all of them, not only would I be super smart, but I would also have sexy skin, a six pack stomach, great hair, be an amazing lover, and all of the women would want me just by smelling my “pheromones.” I doubt that I can have all of that just by taking some pills, but as amazing and unrealistic as the claims are, there are definite benefits to certain herbs. We all know that Ginkgo is for mental alertness and Echinacea is for immunity strength, but what herbs are best for male sexual performance? We will discuss the top ten male enhancement herbs here and finish with a few to avoid. 

1. GINKGO BILOBA LEAF – I wanted to start with ginkgo because it is commonly thought of as an herb to help with memory and brain function. This is in fact correct, however only covers one scope of the herb's benefits. Ginkgo works by expanding the capacity of blood flow through your veins and arteries therefore that effect benefits many parts of the body from the increased oxygen supply to the brain, which allows better brain function, to fuller and harder erections as more blood is supplied to the penis. 

A few concerns with ginkgo are, because of the increased blood flow, those with bleeding disorders, especially those whose blood fails to coagulate on a wound, should take more precaution as more blood flow will slow the coagulation process. The second concern is for those who prefer ginkgo biloba seeds over the leaf. Uncooked ginkgo biloba seeds have shown some small levels of toxins, so if you prefer the seeds it is advised to cook them prior to ingestion. Finally, as with any new addition to your diet, some people have claimed a minor upset stomach and diarrhea. 

The recommended concentration is 24% flavones and 6% terpene lactones. The usual dosage is 120mg to 160mg per day. 

2. EPIMEDIUM LEAF EXTRACT – The next herb is epimedium leaf or commonly known as horny goat weed. The origins of epimedium is from goat herders who noticed that when their flock ate the weed their sexual activity was noticeably increased, thus the name. Discovery Channel did a study on horny goat weed. They found that it is the number one most prescribed solution to sexual dysfunction by professional doctors in China. Although little is known about how horny goat weed actually works, it has shown significant increases in libido and vitality in both men and women, restore sexual function in men, and help with discomfort during menopause in women. 

To this day there have not been any known side effects with horny goat weed, other than the typical minor upset stomach and diarrhea when something new is added to your diet. 

It is recommended that your intake of horny goat weed is concentrated enough to have at least 10% icariin. Generally 1000MG to 2000MG is a sufficient daily dosage. 

3. HAWTHORN BERRY – The hawthorn berry is another herb that is generally used to treat one concern, yet its benefits extend further. The hawthorn berry is primarily used to treat heart problems. It strengthens the heart allowing it to pump more blood. This, of course, translates into more blood flowing into your penis. Thus allowing for harder, fuller erections and increased pleasure from orgasm. 

A few concerns with the hawthorn berry are that studies show that it does lower blood pressure a little bit so if you have very low blood pressure you may need to consult with a physician. And as usual some have reported a minor upset stomach and diarrhea. 

The daily recommended dosage for the hawthorn berry is 160mg to 900mg concentrated to 2% to 3% flavonoids or 18% to 20% oligomeric procyanidins. 

4. SAW PALMETTO BERRY – The saw palmetto berry is a berry that is commonly used for urological problems. The most common use for it is to bring an enlarged prostate back to regular size. However most studies indicate that long term use (12 months or more) of saw palmetto also eased urination and increased sexual function significantly. 

One of the few things about saw palmetto berries is that although there have been many studies done on saw palmetto, there have not been any reported side effects, none even complained about upset stomach or diarrhea. 

320mg per day standardized to not less than 85% fatty acids is the recommended dosage for saw palmetto berries. 

5. CATUABA BARK EXTRACT – The catuaba is a Brazilian, primarily in the Amazon rainforest, tree whose bark has been used for thousands of years as an all around nervous system revitalizer. It restores your nervous system function bringing about increased brain function, reduced nervousness, better sleep and improved sexual function. This is the herb that has helped the 60, 70, 80 even 90 year olds in Brazil have a healthy sex life naturally. 

There are no known side effects with catuaba except the occasional upset stomach and diarrhea when it is first introduced to the diet. The main concern is that you are actually purchasing real catuaba bark, as there are several exporters who export the bark as catuaba, but it is in fact from the wrong tree. There are 2 forms of catuaba tree that supplies the actual bark that is medicinally known for its benefits and the scientific names for these two is Erythroxylum catuaba and Trichilia catigua. 

The standard daily dose is 1000mg to 2000mg. There has not been any standardization of the extract’s concentration. 

6. MUIRA PAUMA BARK EXTRACT – The muira pauma is another rainforest tree found in South America and Africa. This plant’s benefits also focus on the nervous system to treat various ailments such as paralysis, beri-beri, rheumatism, grippe, and cardiac and gastrointestinal weakness, baldness and sexual dysfunction, such as impotence, infertility and menstrual disturbances. 

There are no reported side effects from muira pauma except the occasional upset stomach and diarrhea when it is first introduced to the diet. It is also commonly exported as muira pauma bark extract from a similar tree whose bark does not have the same medical benefits, the scientific name for it is Liriosma ovate, so be sure that before you purchase muira pauma that it does not come from this tree. 

The recommended dosage is 1500mg daily and there are no concentration standards for the muira pauma bark extract. 

7. CUSCUTA SEED EXTRACT – The cuscata is commonly known as dodder plant and it is commonly used to increase sperm production and its fertility. New research has shown that it helps with treating impotence. 

There are rumors that cuscuta seed extract, when ingested in high quantities, caused lack of sleep. There are no case studies showing this effect as the studies done use standard dosages when administering it. There have also never been any claims of upset stomach or diarrhea with cuscuta seed extract. 

The recommended dosage is 10g to 15g boiled in 3 cups of water for 20 minutes, some have said to increase that dosage up to 25 grams of cuscuta seed extract in 3 cups of water each day. It is standardized to 2.5% flavonoids. 

8. ASIAN GINSENG – There are several kinds of ginseng available on the market today, but the one that shows the most sexual function benefit is the asian ginseng. It is commonly used to restore energy both physically and mentally and in sexual function it has a significant benefit in preventing premature ejaculation. 

Asian ginseng has similar side effects as other forms of ginseng which include difficulty falling asleep when taken in large quantities and an upset stomach when it is first introduced to the diet. 

A daily dosage is 200mg to 600mg, standardized to contain 4% to 5% ginsenosides. 

9. TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS – The tribulus terrestris is a plant native to the warm climates of southern Europe and Asia, throughout Africa and in northern Australia, although it is found in North and South America as well now. Its primary use is for the purpose of increased sex drive by restoring hormone levels to normal range, primarily testosterone. 

There are no reported side effects from tribulus terrestris except the occasional upset stomach when it is first introduced to your diet. 

750mg per day is the recommended dosage of tribulus terrestris, standardized for at least 30% to 45% steroidal saponins (furostanol). 

10. DAMIANA – Damiana is found primarily in Central and South America. It is recorded being used as early back as the ancient Mayan civilization to prepare for lovemaking. Today it is used to relieve headaches, control bed wetting, better control of the muscles in the urinary tract, as an aphrodisiac and to enhance orgasms. 

There are no known side effects of damiana even the upset stomach that is common to new ingredients being added to your diet is unheard of. 

The recommended dosage is 750mg to 1000mg per day. There is no standardization for damiana. 

All of the above herbs have been listed as Class 1 safe on the US government website when taken in recommended dosages. However I wanted to make you aware of an herb that is very popular for male enhancement, but it has a serious side effect. The bark of the Yohimbe (aka Yohimbine) tree is known for its potency in increasing sexual function however it can and very often does cause very serious damage to the liver. In fact it is banned for import in several different countries. Please use caution when taking this herb, especially if already have liver problems. 

You will find that all of the above herbs when taken alone will improve your sexual functionality, but when they are combined the effects are compounded. So next time you walk into Walgreens, or who ever your supplier is, you will be able to better distinguish between at least a small section of the natural supplements isle and enhance your love life considerably. 

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Basics of Cooking with Fresh Herbs

Learning to use fresh herbs is a great way to spice up your cooking, making it tastier and better than ever before. There are infinite ways to use fresh herbs in your cooking. This means that you get to use your imagination to create new ways of using the herbs you choose every day! A benefit of using fresh herbs is that you will not need to use as much salt or fatty ingredients to add flavor and substance to your cooking. This brings obvious health benefits as well as the fact that herbs are loaded with antioxidants which protect against cancer and heart disease. 

Using recipes is a great way of introducing yourself to using fresh herbs in your cooking. The next level of learning how to use herbs comes with fully understanding the different flavors of the herbs you are using. To achieve this, I suggest first tasting each herb by itself, then add it to something bland yet familiar, such as rice or potatoes. Finally, (and here's where your creativity comes in) experiment by adding the herb whenever you think it will work. 

If you're using herbs from your own garden, it is important for you to know that the best herbs come from plants that are in the leaf making stage, not in the flowering (reproductive) stage. During the flowering stage, leaves become bitter, grassy, woody, or yellowed because more of the plant's energy is going toward flowering (reproduction). You can delay your plant flowering by harvesting often. 

When starting to grow herbs at home, it's a good idea to start small so as not to become overwhelmed. I recommend starting with six basic herbs, including: Chives, Thyme, Tarragon, Oregano, Rosemary, and Basil. A few others to add when you're comfortable with the above might be: Sage, Marjoram, and Dill. Once you're comfortable with all of these, you may wish to experiment with many others. There are infinite possibilities. 

When cooking with your herbs, it is a general guideline to use three times as much fresh as you would of a dried herb. The best time to pick herbs from your garden is in the morning, after the dew has dried and before the sun gets hot. This will provide you with the optimum flavor and best storage time line. 

When storing your herbs in the refrigerator, I recommend putting them in a perforated plastic bag which you can easily make yourself by poking holes in a plastic bag. They will keep this way for a few days. If the herbs you're storing have long stems, you can cut them at an angle, like flowers, and put them in water, covered loosely with a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Change the water daily and they can last up to a week. Be aware that longer herb storage times may result in diminished flavor. 

A few ideas to get you started cooking with herbs include using Basil, Garlic, Oregano, and Rosemary for meat, stew, pasta, or casseroles. To enhance sweetness, use Cinnamon, Ginger, and Nutmeg. To heat up a dish, add black, red, or white Pepper. Be sure to add fresh herbs at the end of cooking so that flavor lasts. Keep in mind that you can use herb flowers for a beautiful garnish. 

Happy Cooking! 

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Herbs Can Help Allergies For Children With Autism?

Your disorder of autism. Could herbs be a help with allergies?  child may have allergies along with theAs summer approaches or any season, allergies usually increase for many individuals, and that includes children with autism. Pollen becomes an increase factor, sometimes it is difficult to breath, there could be rashes, hives, running eyes, noses, and other irritations 

There are herbs that have a long history for helping people. Most of these herbs are found in your kitchen. For example, there is:

* Thyme-This is usually used for clearing lungs from build-up of phlegm. You could cook with thyme, when the lungs appear to be congested. 

* Caraway-is a gentle herb that also improves and maintains lung health. These seeds go well with carrots, sauerkraut, potato salad and many soups. 

* Basil-Is another herb found in the kitchen. It helps to maintain lungs to stay healthy and combat allergies. This herb also helps motivation. 

The above three herbs are used to improve lungs and help with allergies. These herbs are gentle herbs. Individuals with autism, may find that herbs can help them fight the irritation of allergies. 

There is no herb for one problem. Individuals with autism who have problems with allergies, might want to do research, or have parent(s), caregiver(s) do it, for you, to help explore and make decisions about using herbs. 

It is an excellent idea to observe, check if there are any warnings that the herbs may have, before taking them. Try some of these herbs in foods that you are able to cook with. Sprinkle some of the herbs over your foods and calculate if there are positive changes by using the herbs. Do some research on the herbs, and find new recipes to add them to, and experiment with what tastes good and not so good. 

When using herbs, a little bit goes a long way. Our universe is filled with many herbs. We need to take the time to explore and look around for them and use them. 

I would recommend, if you are in doubt about herbs, and if they can help your individual with allergies, lung problems, consult your physician or a trusted doctor. Some doctors are against anything outside the prescribed medication given, if any, and other doctors are for the herbs. Your primary concern for your child and you, is it safe for your child. 

Every case of autism is different and cases of allergies also vary. Remember, you have to trust your instincts and you as parent(s), caregiver(s) are the first to know, if your child has reactions or effects from certain treatments or medication. You must be aware of this, and document it. 

There are no herbs that have proven to be a cure for all allergies in autistic individuals. Some have great benefits and effects, but not all are equally the same. In addition, this depends on the age of your child, the level of autism, and the severity of the allergies.

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