Why is coconut oil so great, you ask?
With 14 grams of total fat in just one tablespoon, 13 of those grams being saturated, it was only in recent years that coconut oil became popular all over and known as a "health food".
"Common man understands only “Bad Cholesterol” by the term “Cholesterol” and most of them are unaware of the fact that there are two types of cholesterol and one of them is good [and NECESSARY] for health. Further, most of them do not know that so far, contribution of saturated fats towards the rise in bad cholesterol level could not be proven. This belief is the gift of some anti-coconut oil and anti-saturated fats mission powered by some edible oil producers to promote non conventional oils such as soy bean oil, rice husk oil etc. The fact is, to their dismay, that Coconut Oil raises the Good Cholesterol (High Density Lipoproteins) level which is beneficial for health. This good cholesterol helps lower the Bad Cholesterol (Low Density Lipoproteins) level and actually clears the blockages in the arteries and protects your heart."
"The Medium Chain Fatty Acids (Saturated Fats) present in Coconut Oil increase the rate of metabolism, thereby leading to higher consumption of energy for metabolic activities and the resultant burning of more fats. In fact, coconut oil is [recommended] for losing weight."
(Source: organicfacts.net)
Another amazing benefit of coconut oil is the effects it has had on Alzheimer's patients. In her book "Alzheimer's Disease...What If There Was A Cure?", Dr. Mary Newport (M.D.) chronicles the story of her husband's reprieve from the downward spiral of Alzheimer's. She explains that the medium-chain fatty acids are converted by the liver into ketones that are used by the brain as fuel.
"Since it is known that the Alzheimer's brain is insulin resistant or deficient, consuming these fatty acids provides ketones as an alternative fuel to glucose. Changes in individuals may come in the form of improved memory, return of personality, or resumption of activities and social interaction. Because synthesized ketone ester produces considerably higher levels of ketones than fatty acids in foods, Dr. Newport has become an ardent advocate for ketone ester research, with FDA approval her final goal." (Source: back cover of "Alzheimer's Disease...What If There Was A Cure?", Dr. Mary Newport (M.D.) ).
Coconut oil also supports the metabolism and regulates and balances thyroid gland function.
We would recommend eating two tablespoons daily for all of these reasons, as well as better brain function in general and clearer thinking, prevention of Alzheimer's and dementia, energy, and as an all-around delicious and satisfying medicinal food. We at Staff of Life also love our non-dairy coconut milk, yogurt, and ice cream. These are the best dairy substitutes we found yet! Almost as creamy as real dairy. We use coconut milk and oil for cooking and for consuming raw. The following recipes are our favorite way to get our daily dose of coconut oil, not to mention they are delicious and melt in your mouth:
Coconut-Nut Butter Fudge:
Ingredients:
1 cup coconut oil
1 cup nut butter of your choice (ex: peanut, almond, hazelnut, cashew....personal favorite: ALMOND!)
1 tsp sea salt (may adjust to taste)
1 TBSP honey
Blend all indredients together in a blender or food processor until well-mixed. Pour into ice cube tray. (Cook's Corner in Green Bay actually sells ice cube trays that make a little bit smaller cubes that happen to be exactly two tablespoons, meaning that eating two cubes per day is the perfect medicinal dose!)
Put the tray into the freezer for 15 minutes. Then take out, knock the cubes out of the tray and put into a container. If the cubes take up more than one layer, line it with wax paper so they don't stick together. Store in the refrigerator.
Chocolate-Coconut Fudge:
Ingredients:
1 cup coconut oil
1 cup unsweetened chocolate, such as chocolate chips, bar, or baking chocolate
1 tsp sea salt (may adjust to taste)
1 TBSP honey (omit honey if using sweetened chocolate-however, the honey/unsweetened chocolate combo gives it such a nice flavor, texture, and level of sweetness)
2 TBSP coconut flakes or shreds (optional)
Combine coconut oil, chocolate, salt and honey in a saucepan. Cook on as low heat as possible, stirring continuously until everything melts together. When all salt is dissolved and the mixture is totally blended and liquid, add the coconut flakes. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into an ice cube tray. Stick in freezer for 25 minutes, then remove the cubes from the tray. Store cubes in a container in the fridge with wax paper between the layers. Before eating a cube, take it out of the container and set out on a plate for 5-10 minutes before biting into it, as they can be quite solid and potentially hard on the teeth.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Friday, December 7, 2012
Choosing the Right Herbs For Better Sleep
Sleep. A precious commodity to so many of us in this fast-paced society. So few of us are lucky enough to fill our sleep quota every night for so many reasons. Time, stress, caffeine, work, racing thoughts....so many potential disturbances to this most necessary part of our lives, sleep-time. As always, our plant friends are here to help. But how do we know which one to choose, with such a beautiful plethora of them to choose from?
The first thing we need to consider when choosing a sleep herb is why we are having sleep troubles. Are we more stressed than usual, working nights, thinking too much when trying to fall asleep because we are over-excited about something? Are we drinking too much caffeine or consuming other stimulants, especially in the later half of the day? Are we having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or just sleeping too lightly? Different herbs can help with specific factors that impair the quality of our sleep. Herbs can also be used in combination and blended specifically for each person's sleep profile. As with all herbs, it is best to use the gentlest ones that work for you.
If you are stressed, have adrenal issues, and/or consume caffeine or other stimulants to stay awake and alert during the day, I suggest you go back to our blog page and read the previous article about adaptogens in addition to this article. Adaptogens may be your first step towards better sleep, and also more sustainable energy during the day. In this article I will address a few more adaptogenic herbs that may help with some sleep problems. But first we will go right into the nervines (nerve tonics that are relaxing without being overly sedating) and sedatives. These herbs I am about to list have relaxing and/or sedating effects that may directly target sleep issues. All herbs can be taken as a tea before bedtime, or in capsule form or tincture (liquid extract in grain alcohol or glycerin).
SKULLCAP (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a mild sedative and nervine. It is restorative to the adrenal glands, and most of us have abused ours at one time or another. People with adrenal fatigue, exhaustion, or burnout could most likely all benefit from this plant. Skullcap is also antispasmodic and cooling to the nervous system, meaning "hot" conditions like anxiety and stress can be cooled by this herb. Skullcap has been used historically to treat nervous exhaustion (when you are physically and mentally exhausted, but have trouble sleeping because you are stressed about the fact that you are stressed, exhausted and sleep-deprived), agitation and irritability, hysteria, anxiety, rage, anger, epilepsy, insomnia, withdrawal from alcohol and other drug addiction, delirium, tremors, alcohol shakes, stomachaches, nervous irritation of the cerebral-spinal system, hyperactive children, twitches, high blood pressure (hypotensive action), heart disorders (calming to the heart and circulatory system). Skullcap is safe for children and pregnant women, providing a calming effect and deep, refreshing sleep. It is also helpful for head injuries and puncture wounds such as dog bites. A few warnings and other tidbits: People who take skullcap for high blood pressure should consume it in tea form rather than tincture, as the antispasmodic effect is stronger when prepared as tea. Otherwise, the tincture is more sedating than the tea and therefore may work better for sleep issues. Skullcap has a cumulative effect and therefore should not be used consistently for long periods of time. Once you start getting into better sleep rhythms, Oatstraw (Avena sativa) is a gentler herb that may be a good replacement, especially after the nervous system regains its strength.
OATSTRAW (Avena sativa) is also marketed as "milky oat tops". Oatstraw's actions are anti-depressant, nervine, and nutritive (provides nutrients). Oatstraw is known to feed the nervous system, help one deal with stress, depression, and lack of focus. Oatstraw can also be helpful for insomnia, impotence, sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, some female hormonal issues, external skin conditions such as poison ivy and oak, and dermatitis. Also helps weakness of extremities, wasting and osteoperosis. Oatstraw contains soluble fiber, salycic acid, vitamin E, silicon, manganese, iron, zinc, calcium, saponins and flavanoids. Oatstraw may also be helpful for quitting tobacco or other addictions, and it coats the myelin sheaths surrounding nerves-physically healing the nerves. For these two reasons, and also to help restore a nervous system frazzled due to stress, one may want to combine Oatstraw with Skullcap. Oatstraw also combines very well with Passionflower and/or Lemon Balm for rest and sleep.
PASSIONFLOWER (Pasaflora incarnata) is a very beautiful flower in addition to being a sedative, nervine, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anodyne (pain reliever), and anxiolytic (anxiety-relieving) herb. It contains a constituent called chrysin, which binds to excess estrogen, making it a good helper for those with this type of hormonal imbalance. Passionflower is a central nervous system depressant and general relaxant, aiding in nervous insomnia, cerebral overstimulation, and over-excitedness. It decreases nerve pain such as neuralgia and shingles, also stress headaches, smooth muscle (such as uterus) cramps, and is a good friend to those who are chronic worriers, thinkers, headstrong individuals, and sufferers of seizures, muscle spasms, and high blood pressure. Passionflower promotes good spirits and has also historically been combined with St. John's Wort and Wood Betony to treat depression. Passionflower is safe for children and adults alike, but should never be taken with perscription sleeping medications, and it is probably not advisable to take with over the counter sleeping drugs either. Passionflower may cause more vivid dreaming (but prevents nightmares!), so if dreaming tends to wake you up, this may not be your herb.
LEMON BALM (Melissa Officinale) is a deliciously lemon-scented member of the mint family-and is so much more than a sleep helper! Because of her volatile oil content, Melissa is an anti-depressant mood elevator and digestive system-soother. Lemon Balm is a very gentle and safe herb, nonetheless a wonderful anti-spasmodic nervine, mild sedative, and cooling digestive aid. She also relaxes cramps, stomachaches, diarrhea, tension and stress. She promotes good digestion and restful sleep in pregnant women and children and combines well with chamomile for these reasons. For stress and tension, lavender is a good buddy for this herb. Lemon Balm is safe for everyone with absolutely no contraindications.
CALIFORNIA POPPY (Escholzia californica) has stronger sedating effects than any of the herbs previously talked about, yet is still safe for children (not pregnant women however, as it could possibly cause nausea and uterine contractions). Cal-poppy is a sedative, analgesic (pain-killer) and is anti-inflammatory. It has been used for anxiety, insomnia toothaches, restless legs, muscle spasms, and an overall sense of calm. It is great for people who have trouble staying asleep, in which case the person would take fifteen drops of the tincture upon waking in the night. California poppy is strong, and although it is a generally safe plant, excess quantities can cause a mild residual hangover (giving one a drowsy, still tired feeling in the morning). Being a member of the Papaveraceae, or poppy family, Cal-poppy does contain some opioids and should be avoided by those who have a sensitivity to this. This fact also makes it a good helper for a person coming off of stronger opiates such as perscription painkillers and even heroin. *California Poppy is my personal favorite sleep herb because I feel like it gives me the most restful sleep as long as I don't take too much, and it also gives me nice dreams!*
VALERIAN (Valeriana officinalis) is one of the strongest herbal sedatives and muscle relaxers and was once the source of Valium. This plant should not be consumed by children. Valerian should be experimented with in a small amount by each individual before relying on it as a sedative, as some people actually experience the opposite of sedation-which is nervous excitation. Some people also experience headaches or drowsiness the next day as a side effect. Bad dreams or nightmares have been another reported side effect, but combining Valerian with Passionflower tends to prevent this from happening. Valerian has the opposite effect on animals as on people, so do not give this herb to an already hyperactive dog. Valerian can be beneficial to those who suffer from extreme stress and/or anxiety. This plant should not be used every day for long periods of time. It is best when combined with other herbs, such as Passionflower or any of the milder herbs mentioned above, and used only when truly needed for a very deep, restful sleep. Only take Valerian when you have time to get a full night of sleep.
A few adaptogens that may also help with more restful sleep: Adaptogens all relieve stress and normalize the body, so any of them can lead to better sleep; however, most adaptogens should only be taken during the day, particularly at 8 am and noon, when cortisol production in the body is highest. One exception to this rule is:
ASHWAGHANDA (Withania somniferum), which is an Ayurvedic herb native to India, but grows well nearly anywhere. This is a great one for people who work nights or swing shifts and have odd sleeping hours or those who travel and have to frequently adjust their sleep schedules. Ashwaghanda is very calming and can be added to any sleep herb formulas and blends. It can also be taken during the day and blends well with other adaptogens such as Rhodiola, Ginseng, or Eleuthero (see previous blog post about adaptogens). Ashwaghanda is good for stamina in men and women and is toning to the reproductive systems of both. In men, it is said to increase sexual stamina and sperm count and treat erectile dysfunction. Women can take the dried and powdered root in milk with molasses for a nice, absorbable source of iron. It also stimulates the thyroid making it good for those with hypothyroidism, and is used in the treatment of chronic fibromyalgia and restless legs syndrome (supplement with magnesium). It is also anti-inflammatory and treats rheumatoid arthritis, and is an immunomodulator-helping one be less susceptible to common colds and flu. This plant should not be taken by those with hyperthyroidism or excess iron, nor should it be taken by pregnant women or people who take barbituates as it can enhance the effects of this type of drug.
ELEUTHERO (Eleutherococcus senticosus) also known as SIBERIAN GINSENG, although this is a misnomer because Eleuthero is not a "true" Ginseng and is far less stimulating than Asian or American Ginseng although they are in the same botanical family. Eleuthero can be used safely for a long period of time by men and women of all ages and has been known to lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It relaxes the arteries and treats stress-induced hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also said to strengthen the immune system and increase endurance and stamina, making it great for athletes. Eleuthero may help to improve the quality of sleep and reduce nighttime waking, but should not be taken before attempting to go to sleep.
Staff of Life carries all of the herbs mentioned in several different forms (capsules, tinctures, teas, bulk dried herbs) along with many other herbs and supplements including several different sleep formulas. Sweet dreams!
*NONE of this information is FDA approved.
Sources: -Herbalist and teacher Alexis T. Durham
-book: "Making Plant Medicine" by Richo Cech
The first thing we need to consider when choosing a sleep herb is why we are having sleep troubles. Are we more stressed than usual, working nights, thinking too much when trying to fall asleep because we are over-excited about something? Are we drinking too much caffeine or consuming other stimulants, especially in the later half of the day? Are we having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or just sleeping too lightly? Different herbs can help with specific factors that impair the quality of our sleep. Herbs can also be used in combination and blended specifically for each person's sleep profile. As with all herbs, it is best to use the gentlest ones that work for you.
If you are stressed, have adrenal issues, and/or consume caffeine or other stimulants to stay awake and alert during the day, I suggest you go back to our blog page and read the previous article about adaptogens in addition to this article. Adaptogens may be your first step towards better sleep, and also more sustainable energy during the day. In this article I will address a few more adaptogenic herbs that may help with some sleep problems. But first we will go right into the nervines (nerve tonics that are relaxing without being overly sedating) and sedatives. These herbs I am about to list have relaxing and/or sedating effects that may directly target sleep issues. All herbs can be taken as a tea before bedtime, or in capsule form or tincture (liquid extract in grain alcohol or glycerin).
SKULLCAP (Scutellaria lateriflora) is a mild sedative and nervine. It is restorative to the adrenal glands, and most of us have abused ours at one time or another. People with adrenal fatigue, exhaustion, or burnout could most likely all benefit from this plant. Skullcap is also antispasmodic and cooling to the nervous system, meaning "hot" conditions like anxiety and stress can be cooled by this herb. Skullcap has been used historically to treat nervous exhaustion (when you are physically and mentally exhausted, but have trouble sleeping because you are stressed about the fact that you are stressed, exhausted and sleep-deprived), agitation and irritability, hysteria, anxiety, rage, anger, epilepsy, insomnia, withdrawal from alcohol and other drug addiction, delirium, tremors, alcohol shakes, stomachaches, nervous irritation of the cerebral-spinal system, hyperactive children, twitches, high blood pressure (hypotensive action), heart disorders (calming to the heart and circulatory system). Skullcap is safe for children and pregnant women, providing a calming effect and deep, refreshing sleep. It is also helpful for head injuries and puncture wounds such as dog bites. A few warnings and other tidbits: People who take skullcap for high blood pressure should consume it in tea form rather than tincture, as the antispasmodic effect is stronger when prepared as tea. Otherwise, the tincture is more sedating than the tea and therefore may work better for sleep issues. Skullcap has a cumulative effect and therefore should not be used consistently for long periods of time. Once you start getting into better sleep rhythms, Oatstraw (Avena sativa) is a gentler herb that may be a good replacement, especially after the nervous system regains its strength.
OATSTRAW (Avena sativa) is also marketed as "milky oat tops". Oatstraw's actions are anti-depressant, nervine, and nutritive (provides nutrients). Oatstraw is known to feed the nervous system, help one deal with stress, depression, and lack of focus. Oatstraw can also be helpful for insomnia, impotence, sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction, some female hormonal issues, external skin conditions such as poison ivy and oak, and dermatitis. Also helps weakness of extremities, wasting and osteoperosis. Oatstraw contains soluble fiber, salycic acid, vitamin E, silicon, manganese, iron, zinc, calcium, saponins and flavanoids. Oatstraw may also be helpful for quitting tobacco or other addictions, and it coats the myelin sheaths surrounding nerves-physically healing the nerves. For these two reasons, and also to help restore a nervous system frazzled due to stress, one may want to combine Oatstraw with Skullcap. Oatstraw also combines very well with Passionflower and/or Lemon Balm for rest and sleep.
PASSIONFLOWER (Pasaflora incarnata) is a very beautiful flower in addition to being a sedative, nervine, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anodyne (pain reliever), and anxiolytic (anxiety-relieving) herb. It contains a constituent called chrysin, which binds to excess estrogen, making it a good helper for those with this type of hormonal imbalance. Passionflower is a central nervous system depressant and general relaxant, aiding in nervous insomnia, cerebral overstimulation, and over-excitedness. It decreases nerve pain such as neuralgia and shingles, also stress headaches, smooth muscle (such as uterus) cramps, and is a good friend to those who are chronic worriers, thinkers, headstrong individuals, and sufferers of seizures, muscle spasms, and high blood pressure. Passionflower promotes good spirits and has also historically been combined with St. John's Wort and Wood Betony to treat depression. Passionflower is safe for children and adults alike, but should never be taken with perscription sleeping medications, and it is probably not advisable to take with over the counter sleeping drugs either. Passionflower may cause more vivid dreaming (but prevents nightmares!), so if dreaming tends to wake you up, this may not be your herb.
LEMON BALM (Melissa Officinale) is a deliciously lemon-scented member of the mint family-and is so much more than a sleep helper! Because of her volatile oil content, Melissa is an anti-depressant mood elevator and digestive system-soother. Lemon Balm is a very gentle and safe herb, nonetheless a wonderful anti-spasmodic nervine, mild sedative, and cooling digestive aid. She also relaxes cramps, stomachaches, diarrhea, tension and stress. She promotes good digestion and restful sleep in pregnant women and children and combines well with chamomile for these reasons. For stress and tension, lavender is a good buddy for this herb. Lemon Balm is safe for everyone with absolutely no contraindications.
CALIFORNIA POPPY (Escholzia californica) has stronger sedating effects than any of the herbs previously talked about, yet is still safe for children (not pregnant women however, as it could possibly cause nausea and uterine contractions). Cal-poppy is a sedative, analgesic (pain-killer) and is anti-inflammatory. It has been used for anxiety, insomnia toothaches, restless legs, muscle spasms, and an overall sense of calm. It is great for people who have trouble staying asleep, in which case the person would take fifteen drops of the tincture upon waking in the night. California poppy is strong, and although it is a generally safe plant, excess quantities can cause a mild residual hangover (giving one a drowsy, still tired feeling in the morning). Being a member of the Papaveraceae, or poppy family, Cal-poppy does contain some opioids and should be avoided by those who have a sensitivity to this. This fact also makes it a good helper for a person coming off of stronger opiates such as perscription painkillers and even heroin. *California Poppy is my personal favorite sleep herb because I feel like it gives me the most restful sleep as long as I don't take too much, and it also gives me nice dreams!*
VALERIAN (Valeriana officinalis) is one of the strongest herbal sedatives and muscle relaxers and was once the source of Valium. This plant should not be consumed by children. Valerian should be experimented with in a small amount by each individual before relying on it as a sedative, as some people actually experience the opposite of sedation-which is nervous excitation. Some people also experience headaches or drowsiness the next day as a side effect. Bad dreams or nightmares have been another reported side effect, but combining Valerian with Passionflower tends to prevent this from happening. Valerian has the opposite effect on animals as on people, so do not give this herb to an already hyperactive dog. Valerian can be beneficial to those who suffer from extreme stress and/or anxiety. This plant should not be used every day for long periods of time. It is best when combined with other herbs, such as Passionflower or any of the milder herbs mentioned above, and used only when truly needed for a very deep, restful sleep. Only take Valerian when you have time to get a full night of sleep.
A few adaptogens that may also help with more restful sleep: Adaptogens all relieve stress and normalize the body, so any of them can lead to better sleep; however, most adaptogens should only be taken during the day, particularly at 8 am and noon, when cortisol production in the body is highest. One exception to this rule is:
ASHWAGHANDA (Withania somniferum), which is an Ayurvedic herb native to India, but grows well nearly anywhere. This is a great one for people who work nights or swing shifts and have odd sleeping hours or those who travel and have to frequently adjust their sleep schedules. Ashwaghanda is very calming and can be added to any sleep herb formulas and blends. It can also be taken during the day and blends well with other adaptogens such as Rhodiola, Ginseng, or Eleuthero (see previous blog post about adaptogens). Ashwaghanda is good for stamina in men and women and is toning to the reproductive systems of both. In men, it is said to increase sexual stamina and sperm count and treat erectile dysfunction. Women can take the dried and powdered root in milk with molasses for a nice, absorbable source of iron. It also stimulates the thyroid making it good for those with hypothyroidism, and is used in the treatment of chronic fibromyalgia and restless legs syndrome (supplement with magnesium). It is also anti-inflammatory and treats rheumatoid arthritis, and is an immunomodulator-helping one be less susceptible to common colds and flu. This plant should not be taken by those with hyperthyroidism or excess iron, nor should it be taken by pregnant women or people who take barbituates as it can enhance the effects of this type of drug.
ELEUTHERO (Eleutherococcus senticosus) also known as SIBERIAN GINSENG, although this is a misnomer because Eleuthero is not a "true" Ginseng and is far less stimulating than Asian or American Ginseng although they are in the same botanical family. Eleuthero can be used safely for a long period of time by men and women of all ages and has been known to lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It relaxes the arteries and treats stress-induced hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also said to strengthen the immune system and increase endurance and stamina, making it great for athletes. Eleuthero may help to improve the quality of sleep and reduce nighttime waking, but should not be taken before attempting to go to sleep.
Staff of Life carries all of the herbs mentioned in several different forms (capsules, tinctures, teas, bulk dried herbs) along with many other herbs and supplements including several different sleep formulas. Sweet dreams!
*NONE of this information is FDA approved.
Sources: -Herbalist and teacher Alexis T. Durham
-book: "Making Plant Medicine" by Richo Cech
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Staying Healthiest with Olive Leaf
Olive leaf is simply the leaf of the olive tree. As the olive branch is a symbol of peace, olive leaf is a promoter of inner peace and well-being. It also reduces anxiety. The energy it provides is a calm, real energy, not a quick, caffeine-like kick. When I take it I feel balanced and healthy. The constituents that make olive leaf so effective are apigenin, tannins, choline, cinchonine, luteolin, mannitol, and olivin. For thousands of years, humans have used olive leaf for its antibiotic effects and to lower fevers and fight infections. Olive leaf works because the compound oleuropein (in olives and olive leaf) interferes with the ability of bacteria, viruses and fungi to replicate themselves and spread when it breaks down in the body, thus allowing the immune system to combat infection more effectively. It is celebrated for its effectiveness as an antibiotic both internally and externally. Externally, it has been used for skin infections and psoriasis. A poultice is one way to use it. You may also want to put it in a salve (Staff of Life carries carrier oils and butters and beeswax, as well as other herbs and essential oils for making salves and poultices). Olive leaf poultices and salves also encourage circulation in the skin, promoting faster healing of wounds.
Another great benefit of olive leaf is the healing effect it has on the cardiovascular system. Olive leaf helps to lower blood pressure (although only slightly-HAWTHORN is the true great blood pressure-lowerer! But a combination of the two could probably do wonders!), and oleuropein may prevent LDL cholesterol from oxidizing into a form that could cause atherosclerotic plaques. It does so by relaxing arterial walls (again, think PEACE!) and normalizing the heart (another reason olive leaf and hawthorn could make a dynamic team!). Some say it is helpful for diabetes because it inhibits neural damage caused by high blood sugar levels. Lab studies have shown that olive leaf may lower blood sugar levels as well, but there is no scientific proof yet that it does much for diabetes-although it probably couldn't hurt! (If I were diabetic I would at least take it for colds and other immune weaknesses and see what happens. That's just me though-I'm an experimenter at my own risk!) Olive leaf has also been used to treat inflammatory arthritis.
I suppose I should say that this information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (of course not, eh?). Olive leaf's effect on pregnant women is not yet known, and olive leaf should be taken with meals. Also, this information if solely for your entertainment and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. However, I personally use olive leaf and many other beautiful herbs as preventative measure and promoter of well-being. You can do whatever you want, but I encourage everyone to take control of their own health and well-being. Be the Mistress/Master of your destiny and health!
-Emily Resick, 2/28/2012
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Thanks fans! Stay healthy!
Thanks fans! Stay healthy!
Vitamin and Supplement SALES!
Here at Staff of Life, we only carry the vitamin brands we feel are the best and that we have had the most personal success with. Every month, a different brand goes on sale. Every year, the cycle repeats! We offer 20% off of the brand that is on sale that month. For example, since tomorrow is the last day of February, it is the last day Solaray and KAL will be 20% off (until August!) Then, in March, all Nature's Plus products will be 20% off. Here are the major brands we carry and the calendar of when they are on sale:
January.......Enzymatic Therapy (A great local company-made in Green Bay, WI!)
February.....Solaray and KAL
March.........Nature's Plus
April............Enzymatic Therapy
May.............Solaray and KAL
June.............Nature's Plus
July..............Enzymatic Therapy
August.........Solaray and KAL
September...Nature's Plus
October.......Enzymatic Therapy
November....Solaray and KAL
December.....Nature's Plus
We also carry smaller amounts of other brands, such as NOW, Nature's Sunshine (which we will blog more about later) Nature's Way, Renew Life, Garden of Life, and a few others. We have some homeopathic medicines as well, mostly Hyland, Boiron, and Boericke & Tafel. Much of our staff has good advice and reccomendations if you need them! Stay healthy!
January.......Enzymatic Therapy (A great local company-made in Green Bay, WI!)
February.....Solaray and KAL
March.........Nature's Plus
April............Enzymatic Therapy
May.............Solaray and KAL
June.............Nature's Plus
July..............Enzymatic Therapy
August.........Solaray and KAL
September...Nature's Plus
October.......Enzymatic Therapy
November....Solaray and KAL
December.....Nature's Plus
We also carry smaller amounts of other brands, such as NOW, Nature's Sunshine (which we will blog more about later) Nature's Way, Renew Life, Garden of Life, and a few others. We have some homeopathic medicines as well, mostly Hyland, Boiron, and Boericke & Tafel. Much of our staff has good advice and reccomendations if you need them! Stay healthy!
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