I wanted to let you know that as an experiment, I've uploaded some clips from my DVD video, World of Healthy Healing: Unleashing The Healing Power of Herbs, to YouTube!
Here's the first clip:
You can explore all of the clips at http://www.youtube.com/drlindapage
-Linda
I'm pleased to announce the launch of the new HealthyHealing.com. You can be sure that we still have all of your favorite Crystal Star whole herb formulas and all of my best-selling books. We have redesigned the site to make it easier than ever to find the relevant, specific natural health information and products you're looking for.
To celebrate our new site, I'm giving you this 15%-off promotion code, good for any order over $50: RXP9428
Simply enter this code when you go to check out, and it will be applied to your order.
-Linda
UPDATE: because of some difficulty we had with the promotion code software on the site, we've decided to extend this promotion to the end of April. Thank you all!
Nearly everyone faces weight gain in their 40s, even people who have always been slim, who eat a healthy diet, and who exercise regularly. In fact, body fat typically doubles between the ages of 20 and 50. Sometimes diet and exercise really isn't enough!
Healthy lifestyle changes are critical to achieve long-term weight loss goals, but experience has shown me that it often takes more at mid life. Whole herbs are an ideal choice for weight loss without health risks. They are not habit forming like stimulant anti-obesity drugs, and they support natural weight loss processes, like thermogenesis (fat burning). For "after 40" weight loss concerns, choose all natural, whole herb formulas:
- Calcium Magnesium Source Recent research has revealed a new diet fact: calcium can help you lose weight as you grow older. Calcium Magnesium Source delivers highly absorbable calcium, magnesium and trace minerals to help maintain skeletal health and promote weight loss.*** More... - Hot Seaweed Bath A hot seaweed bath is another easy yet surprisingly effective weight loss technique that I've been using for years. Taking a hot seaweed bath once or twice a week stimulates lymphatic drainage and fat burning so you can keep off excess weight, reduce cellulite and rid your body of toxins. Try it for yourself. It really works!*** More... - Tummy Control Stress boosts the hormone cortisol which increases appetite and cravings for sugary, high carbohydrate foods that the body stores as tummy fat. Women who overeat when they're unhappy may be especially affected because they already have more deep abdominal fat where stress-related fat is stored. Some experts theorize that the body is actually trying to protect the organs from stress by storing more fat around them. This highly complex formula is rich in nervine herbs like Rhodiola rosea that calm and soothe stress reactions that contribute to weight gain around the middle.*** More... - Thermo Thinner Activate your calorie-burning energy. Burn those fats... curb your appetite... boost your energy levels with powerful herbal catalysts! Helps your body systems switch from storing fat to producing muscle by promoting better metabolism for maximum fat burning and more energy.*** More... |
 Thin After 40 A complete, advanced 8-formula combination that you can rely upon to ease your concerns over difficult "after 40" weight control. Activates slow metabolism and boosts thermogenesis for maximum fat-burning activity. Learn More... * For more information on natural weight loss, refer to pages 160-177 of my bestselling health resource Diets for Healthy Healing. |
One weight loss tip: Try dipping raw veggies in mustard throughout the day. Just one tsp. of mustard can increase metabolism 25% for up to 3 hours!
-Linda
While colon health isn't normally the topic of polite conversation, maybe we should be talking about it more because a colon cleanse is actually something most of us need. Constipation is the #1 gastrointestinal complaint in the U.S., affecting an astonishing 43 million people! Hardly any health program will work without a gentle colon cleanse as part of it. When the colon is overloaded, waste backs up, and releases toxins into the bloodstream. Cleansing your colon actually lightens the toxic load on every other part of your body, even your mind. Problems like headaches, skin blemishes, bad breath, fatigue, and sluggish digestion are all linked to a congested colon. Colon and bowel malfunction may be a factor in accelerated aging, too.
Do you need a Colon Detox? Here are symptoms to watch for:
Following a 3-5 day colon detox program a few times a year is a good choice to enhance your colon-bowel health. It's important to make a conscious effort to reduce saturated fats from red meat, dairy products and starchy breads since these foods are highly constipating. Whole herbs are another premier choice for colon cleansing. Herbs like cascara sagrada and butternut bark encourage normal elimination and healthy colon tone, and are especially helpful for people who experience little to no relief with diet changes and regular exercise.
My whole herb Colon Detox Kit helps rid your body of toxins while promoting total colon health. It includes:
As a bonus, by purchasing the kit you save 20% over buying everything separately.
Learn More:http://www.healthyhealing.com/catalog/ProductFamily.aspx?id=128&srcID=2&srcTarget=Department
-Linda
More and more I see my life's work is to empower people to heal themselves naturally with whole foods and whole herbs--Nature's perfect medicines. I want you to feel better, look better and live longer, naturally! I'm often asked if herbs are a good choice for beauty needs. My answer is a resounding yes. Whole herb formulas enhance skin beauty, and even improve the health of your hair and nails. True beauty comes from within. Mineral-rich whole herbs strengthen and beautify skin, hair and nails... from the inside out.
Beauty is a mirror of both good nutrition and common-sense care. Skin problems reflect a stressed lifestyle, poor diet and lack of rest almost immediately. Hair loss or dry, brittle hair can be signs of nutrient deficiencies or a poorly functioning thyroid gland. Further, because they are one of the last body areas to receive nutrients carried by the blood, your nails will often show signs of trouble before better-nourished tissues do. Changes in their shape, color and texture also reflect internal disorders, and, frequently, a lackluster diet with little to no fresh foods.
Over the years, I've developed and perfected a few whole herb formulas that nourish and support your body, helping you to have beautiful skin, hair and nails:
Beautiful Skin
This is a potent herbal combination that cleanses and supports the organs responsible for healthy skin. This formula eliminates deep toxins which can stress and negatively effect the skin environment. Beautiful Skin is also available in a tea formula which can be used luke-warm externally as an anti-redness wash.
Learn More (caps): http://www.healthyhealing.com/catalog/ProductFamily.aspx?id=9&srcID=5&srcTarget=Department
Learn More (tea): http://www.healthyhealing.com/catalog/ProductFamily.aspx?id=74&srcID=5&srcTarget=Department
Beautiful Hair & Nails
Helps you grow longer, stronger, healthier hair & nails. Most people see a noticeable difference in 3 weeks.
Learn More:http://www.healthyhealing.com/catalog/ProductFamily.aspx?id=8&srcID=5&srcTarget=Department
Ocean Minerals
Provides naturally occurring iodine, potassium and silica from the sea for thyroid balancing, and healthy skin, hair and nails.
Learn More:http://www.healthyhealing.com/catalog/ProductFamily.aspx?id=42&srcID=5&srcTarget=Department
One more herbal beauty tip I want to share:
Try a sea plant facial to re-mineralize dull skin: Mix 1 tsp. of kelp granules in 1 tbsp. of pure aloe vera gel. Apply to face and neck. Leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing. Sea vegetables like kelp are high in minerals like calcium, magnesium iodine and potassium that add luster to rough, dull skin. Aloe vera normalizes skin pH and offers fast relief for red skin problems.
-Linda
Nature cares for all of her children, two-legged and four-legged alike. In fact, the power of safe, natural whole herbs is perfectly suited to the furriest members of our extended families. This blessing goes both ways, as studies have show that people with pets live longer, happier lives. If you believe, as I do, in the healing power of love, then the unconditional love of a pet must be powerful medicine indeed!
Over the course of many years, I have created three whole-herb supplements that you may want to consider for your pets:
Healthy Skin, Coat & Eyes for Pets
This formula offers the benefits of chlorophyll-rich greens to keep their blood strong, their bodies regular and their breath sweet. Rich in carotenes for immune strength, high in antioxidants like vitamin A and life-giving enzymes. All kinds of animals like it!
Learn More >>
AR-eze for Pets
Eases stiffness and boosts mobility in dogs, especially large dogs. Rich in anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, and herbs that help break up inorganic crystals.
Learn More >>
Systems Strength Broth Mix
An advanced healing combination for pets as well as people. This mix is rapidly restorative for animal systems. Even sick pets seem to know instinctively that it is good for them, and will take it as a broth or from an eye dropper.
Learn More >>
Healthy Healing, 12th Edition
This 12th Edition of my best-selling book includes an expanded section on "Healing for Pets" that is a valuable resource for all you animal lovers.
Learn More >>
-Linda
Here at Healthy Healing, we love our pets and are heartbroken over the recent animal deaths due to widespread commercial pet food contamination. We send our condolences to everyone who has been affected and offer our prayers for a healthy recovery for the animals who are still sick.
As nutritionists and herbalists, we have long known that most commercial pet foods don't really offer our animal friends "premium" nutrition. In fact, the quality standards for commercial pet foods is notoriously low. Did you know much of the meat that is used in commercial pet food comes from 4-D animals (dead, dying, disabled or diseased animals)? Like us, animals need the live energy of fresh foods and quality, whole ingredients. It takes a little more time and effort to feed your pet fresh foods, but it's well worth it.
For your pet's best health, try this recipe for homemade pet food.
Makes three to four servings. Well tolerated by cats and dogs. Mix together:
Warm all ingredients for a few minutes on the stove top. Serve according to your pet's size. Your pets will love it! Ours do.
-Linda
Today is the first day of Spring, and already you can see Nature reawakening. From the buds on the trees, to the wildflowers bursting from the soil, life is all around us.
Unfortunately, with the warmth spreading through the land, other, less welcome visitors are stirring as well. A whole host of allergies, irritations, maladies and complaints become much more active with the return of warmer weather. For this reason, it's critically important that you strengthen and support your immune system to prepare for the coming onslaught.
Most Americans today don't have good immune response to fight off illness. Pollution, drug overload and nutrient-poor diets compromise our immune health even at the best of times. So we're already pre-disposed to a life of frequent colds, flu, and sinus infections when trouble rolls in.
Drugs are not the answer for immune enhancement. Each one of us has a unique immune response system. It would be almost impossible to form a drug for each person. Immune defense is automatic and subconscious. It works on its own to set up a healing environment for your body. It is this quality of being part of us, yet not under our conscious control, that is the great power of immune response. Our immune system shows us that there is so much more to healing than the latest wonder drug. We can really see that we are the ultimate healer of ourselves.
However, we're not alone in the fight. Nature has provided a powerful set of tools in the form of whole herbs that strengthen, nourish and support our natural immune defenses. Over the course of many years, I have formulated and perfected a variety of whole-herb formulas using both ancient wisdom and modern research:
Anti-Bio
A frontline defense for people needing immune support. Safeguards your health, especially during high risk seasons. First aid responder... now with anti-viral support. Works with your body's own "immune responders" for defense against harmful bacteria.
SEE ALSO: Anti-Bio Skin Gel, Anti-Bio Extract
Dr. Enzyme
This potent blend of proteolytic enzymes helps reduce inflammation and purify the bloodstream so the body can get better--naturally!
Ear Defense Drops
A long-term maintenance and prevention remedy to be taken during high risk cold and flu seasons. Especially rich in immune enhancing herbs, vitamins and minerals. Superfoods help round off a complete and powerful prevention and defense program.
Vir-ex
Targeted for anti-viral activity. Stimulates lymph system to remove pathogens. Takes down inflammation. Restores homeostasis.
Learn More: http://www.healthyhealing.com/catalog/Department.aspx?id=46
- Linda
My Women's Fertility Kit was created to support a woman's optimum reproductive health. It's particularly useful for women who have an irregular menstrual cycle. (A regular cycle is usually about 28 days. ) But, today, many women suffer from an irregular cycle; they may skip their menstrual periods altogether or have extremely long periods. For them, conceiving is especially difficult because their fertile days are difficult to predict and traditional means of determining ovulation aren't very accurate. The formulas in the kit help regulate menstruation and encourage normal ovulation (some women don't ovulate monthly either), so women using it will have a better chance at conceiving.
The kit is useful for women who want to have a baby, but who have no interest in sex, either because of stress or hormonal imbalance. It's easy for couples dealing with fertility problems to lose their spark while focusing on the mechanics of conception. The kit helps couples put the fun back into baby-making. Whole herbs are very stress relieving and hormone balancing. Some like wild oats have even been found to enhance libido and orgasm frequency!
My Women's Fertility Kit is also used by women who want to promote a healthy body environment before they try to conceive. Many herbs I recommend like red raspberry are "uterine tonics" that help the uterus prepare for healthy conception, pregnancy and even easier child delivery. By purchasing the kit, you save 20% over buying everything seperately.
Women's Fertility Kit [20% Off]
Enhance women's fertility with a whole herb nutrition kit! Millions of Americans struggle with fertility problems. Most can overcome them with simple lifestyle changes and natural therapies. In addition, whole herb nutrients provide ideal support for the special needs of a mother-to-be.
Learn More >>
- Linda
Throughout the course of time, strong, intelligent women have shaped the course of nations and our world, both in the limelight and behind the scenes. March is Women's History Month, and I would like to celebrate that fact by discussing how you, as a woman, can take charge of your own health.
A woman's body is an incredibly complex, individual and dynamic system. It responds to the cycles and rhythms of the moon and the tides, and at times even seems to be a force of nature itself! Even so, the powerful tides of hormones and monthly cycles can get thrown off kilter by environmental estrogens, stress, and less-than-ideal dietary habits. Clearly, it's not surprising that Nature's greatest gift to us, whole herbs, can help to keep the rhythms and tides of our bodies in harmonic balance. I have put together a number of kits, especially designed for a woman's body. Each kit includes one of my books, a number of my whole herb formulas, and a step-by-step healing program.
Sexuality for Women Kit [20% Off]
Recharge your sex life with a whole herb nutrition kit. The latest statistics find that as many as 50% of adult women have lost interest in sex or have difficulty becoming aroused. Even a minute imbalance in hormones can contribute to low libido or vaginal dryness, the two main sexual problems women face today. In addition, adrenal exhaustion and thyroid malfunction can cause a waning libido, and they're both at epidemic levels in America today, especially for women after menopause.
Learn More >>
Total Menopause Balance Kit [20% Off]
Revitalize your hormonal health with a whole herb nutrition kit. Menopause is intended by Nature to be a gradual reduction of estrogen by the ovaries. In healthy, well nourished women, the adrenals and other glands normally pick up the job of estrogen secretion to keep a woman active and attractive after menopause. Still, there is no questions that many women feel the need for extra help from diet changes and nutritional supplements during the years of the change. Whole herbs help reduce your symptoms while building your health. They work to normalize body chemistry at the hormonal and glandular level for long lasting results.
Learn More >>
Hot Flashes & Night Sweats Kit [20% Off]
Reduce hot flashes and night sweats with a whole herb nutrition kit. Scientists continue to research the exact cause of hot flashes, but it is speculated they are related to the drop in estrogen during menopause and its effect on the hypothalamus, the part of the brain in charge of body temperature. During menopause, it is thought that the hypothalamus becomes overly sensitive to heat. As estrogen levels fluctuate, the brain believes your body is overheated and compensates by dilating blood vessels in the head, arms and legs to help you cool down, causing those all too familar, flushing, perspiring symptoms of hot flashes and night sweats.
Learn More >>
Woman's Fertility Kit [20% Off]
Enhance women's fertility with a whole herb nutrition kit! Millions of Americans struggle with fertility problems. Most can overcome them with simple lifestyle changes and natural therapies. For women, hormone imbalance, an aging egg supply and reproductive blockages are the biggest conception inhibitors. But before you spend thousands of dollars on fertility treatments, explore your natural options. A good diet and lifestyle is critical for at least six months before trying to conceive for both partners. In addition, whole herb nutrients provide ideal support for the special needs of a mother-to-be.
Learn More >>
S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder) makes you feel sad. Most of us know someone (or are ourselves) affected by the “winter blues.” Wintertime means depression symptoms for an astounding 35 million Americans. Just yesterday, I read a report that researchers in England declared Monday, January 22 the most unhappy day of the year! Unrealized New Year’s resolutions, heavy debt from Christmas over spending, cold weather and lack of motivation are all blamed for “Blue Monday.” I don't know about you, but I could relate!
Light deprivation is another major cause of wintertime depression. Lack of sunlight during the winter can cause the body to overproduce melatonin, the “sleep hormone,” leading to extreme fatigue, depression and the need to compensate for these symptoms with food, especially refined carbohydrates and sugar.
Are you S.A.D.? Symptoms typically begin as early as September and can continue until Spring. Body signs to watch for:
Do you over sleep or struggle to get out of bed, even when you get enough sleep?
Do you feel lethargic or have poor concentration during the day?
Are you overwhelmed by simple tasks?
Do you have unusually strong cravings for sweets or carbohydrates?
Do you gain weight in the winter (up to 10-15 lbs.) even though your diet hasn’t really changed?
Do you feel more anxious, or experience very low daytime energy with nighttime insomnia?
Do short periods of sunlight noticeably lift your spirits?
Do you experience a “summer high” where you feel elated and full of energy?
Do you suffer from eyestrain or frequent headaches?
Wintertime depression is a real problem that can affect your job, lower productivity, even create problems at home, but there are steps you can take to start feeling better.
Natural S.A.D. Solutions
• Make sure your diet is balanced with natural foods and complex carbohydrates from whole grains, and fruit and vegetables. Include B vitamin and mineral rich foods like brown rice, nutritional yeast, and legumes for blood sugar stabilization.
•Vitamin D therapy is a key. Lack of sunlight means less vitamin D is available for brain nourishment. Eat more vitamin D rich foods like eggs, fish, seafoods and sea vegetables (2 tbsp. chopped sea vegetables daily or 6 pieces of sushi a week is fine). Consider supplemental vitamin D 400 to 1000 IU daily all throughout the winter. This really works for people who suffer.
•Get outdoor exercise every day. Take a daily brisk walk or jog to activate your body’s natural anti-depressant endorphins. People who participate in a winter sport like skiing are less affected by S.A.D., and have much more fun.
• Full spectrum light boxes have shown clear effectiveness. A 2001 Archives of General Psychiatry study showed that 80% of people with wintertime depression experienced rapid remission from using light boxes for 30 minutes daily! Some doctors will even prescribe light boxes for their depressed patients. Depression typically begins to lift a week after photo therapy.
•Spend time in a greenhouse. Plant oxygen can really do wonder for wintertime blues and low energy.
Whole herbs are wonderful, gentle mood elevators.
• Depress-Ex™ capsules produce a calming effect for mild to moderate despondency, without causing side effects like insomnia or nervousness. Take 2 caps, twice daily as needed for up to 3 weeks at a time. Rest one week before resuming.
• Ginkgo biloba extract is another good choice. Ginkgo supports proper pineal and pituitary gland functioning, normalizing melatonin production in the body. Ginkgo also boosts brain energy, relieving symptoms like mental dullness and fatigue.
If you’re affected by S.A.D., be gentle with yourself and ask for professional help if you need it. And don’t forget, springtime is only around the corner!
All the best,
Sarah
We tend to think of the winter season as a time to stock up on herbs with antibiotic properties for colds and flu. But many herbal antibiotics are also potent anti-inflammatories. Infection triggers a powerful inflammatory response in the body, so using anti-inflammatory herbs during a bout with a cold or flu can be a very good thing.
Herbal antibiotics actually have very complex activity. Some of the herbal “antibiotics” we use in the West actually don’t have true antibacterial (germ killing) properties at all. Echinacea, for instance, works as an immune stimulant and an inflammation fighter. Native Americans first used echinacea to relieve pain and inflammation from snake bites. Echinacea also flushes the lymphatic system of disease-causing toxins; it’s been found clinically to reduce the swelling of lymph glands during a cold or flu.
Goldenseal is another widely used herbal antibiotic, so much so it’s at risk for becoming endangered. Berberine in goldenseal does have anti-infective qualities, but part of the reason goldenseal is effective against infections is because it’s a strong anti-inflammatory herb. Goldenseal relieves inflammation of the mucous membranes fast, so the body can recover more quickly with less symptoms like irritated throat and sinuses, and congestion.
Here are a few more of my favorite anti-inflammatory herbs and how you might benefit from them:
Coptis: Like goldenseal, coptis is a source of the infection fighting, anti-inflammatory constituent, berberine. However, Coptis is not endangered. Coptis is used to help overcome stubborn infections of the bladder, sinuses and vagina. Coptis also works to decrease inflammation of the stomach lining.
Ginger: Research shows ginger lowers levels of inflammatory prostaglandins (hormone-like chemicals in the body). Studies from the University of Denmark show ginger relieves pain for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, with up to 74% of patients reporting significant results. Taken at the onset of pain, ginger can sometimes stop a migraine, too.
Turmeric: Turmeric is a superior anti-inflammatory herb and COX-2 enzyme inhibitor for natural arthritis treatment. Some reports suggest turmeric is as effective as cortisone for relief of acute inflammation. Early reports suggest that it may protect against colon cancer, too.
White willow: White willow is a natural source of pain relieving salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. But white willow is much safer without the gastric side effects or ulcer risk. Great for headaches, arthritis and minor body aches from colds and flu.
3 formulas to consider:
Anti-Flam™: a powerful combination of anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic herbs. It’s especially good to relieve minor pain from arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Anti-Bio™: a combination of broad spectrum antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory herbs. I’ve used this formula with good results at the onset of cold and flu symptoms. Sometimes it can stop a cold dead in its tracks!
Muscle Relaxer™: the most potent, non-narcotic pain reliever in the Crystal Star line of herbal formulas. I’ve heard particularly good feedback from people who use it to ease minor pain from fibromyalgia, back injuries or disc problems.
Best wishes,
Sarah
I’m sorry this post comes a little late, as November was animal cancer awareness month. But better late than never, and I would be remiss in not bringing up this important topic to all of our animal friends out there. I know first hand how devastating a diagnosis of cancer in a family pet can be. About 5 years ago, our company founder, Linda Page, lost 2 family pets to cancer in a period of about 1 year and a half.
At the time, I worked in an adjacent office on Linda's property in Carmel Valley. I grew very close to the Page family pets... the “babies” as Linda called them. I got so close in fact they became part of my extended family and I came to love them as if they were my own. I learned so much during that time, and some of it was very painful. In spite of the sadness and loss, I try to never forget the joyfullness of their lives and the amazing strength and courage they showed even as they were sick. I try to remember the many lessons I learned from the animals. Our beloved Shi-Tzu, Champagne, had the spirit of a warrior. He lived much longer and with greater vitality than anyone ever dreamed after his diagnosis of inoperable intestinal cancer.
Here are a few of my thoughts on wellness aids for pets with cancer:
Love Them. The best medicine for animal companions is love. Don’t underestimate the importance of your pet’s emotional health if he has been diagnosed with cancer. If you are sick with worry and in turmoil over the big “C” diagnosis, your pet will sense it and could become worried and unsure himself. Cancer is not necessarily a death sentence. Pet, brush, walk, play and engage your pet in all of his favorite activities as long as he is feeling up to it. This will do wonders for his well being and reassure him that the “family pack” is in order. Homeopathic remedies are highly valuable: Bach Flower Rescue Remedy drops are especially good for vet visits or if the animal seems highly stressed. Walnut drops help pets adjust to new changes, and can protect them from their human counterpart’s emotions.
Feed Them Well. Good food is critical for your pet, even if he seems uninterested. As with humans, cancer in animals can cause poor appetite, nutrient depletion, weight loss and weakness. You will be amazed by how much a nutritious diet can transform your pet’s health. Avoid commercial foods; use as much fresh unprocessed foods as possible. Consider making your own healthy animal food. (See my previous post “Pet Health.”) Add fresh greens to meals for live food energy and a chlorophyll blood boost. I hate the term “force feeding.” But if your animal becomes unwilling to eat or drink, provide him a fast “nutrient blast.” It shouldn’t be too hard on your pet. A empty syringe filled with mild baby foods or fluids to re-hydrate can be administered quickly, without a lot of fuss and will produce a noticeable energy boost for your pet. Ask your vet for tips on how to administer nutrients and fluids to an animal who is refusing to eat.
Consider Non-toxic Therapies. Chemotherapy is used for many forms of animal cancer, but consider wisely before you agree. Chemotherapy is not always the best choice for animal cancer. Make sure the benefits ultimately outweigh the toxicity/illness it may cause your pet. Non-toxic avenues for healing can produce dramatic results and should be actively explored.
Here are a few choices:
Protease enzyme therapy: Animal cancers have shown dramatic improvement with plant protease. Protease helps break down abnormal tissue without harming healthy tissue. It promotes blood cleansing and acts as an immune enhancer, very important for cancer recovery. Protease can also be used with many conventional therapies. It can be given on an empty stomach mixed with water, or mixed with a small amount of food if necessary. Dr. Enzyme™ is a good choice to explore with your holistic vet.
Maitake Pet Fraction extract: A true wellness aid for animals. Research on dogs shows Pet Fraction, a special extract from maitake mushroom, reduces chemotherapy side effects like appetite and weight loss. Of thirteen dogs tested, twelve showed an increase in lymphocyte fraction, a sign of immune activation. I’ve worked with Pet Fraction with numerous animals with various health concerns and have been very impressed by the results. My cat, Coco, even likes the taste!
Systems Strength™ Broth Mix: Helps your pet recuperate, and rebuilds his vitality and health. This formula provides essential fats, green superfoods and antioxidants. Systems Strength™ even encourages faster healing. Offer the animal about 1/4 cup of the broth or as much as he will take 2 times daily.
If your pet is gravely ill, seek out medical attention. But don’t panic in the face of an early cancer diagnosis. Many pets do in fact recover from cancer. Whatever the case is, enjoy every day together and make happy memories that will last a lifetime. I’ll speak on more of your pet health concerns like feline urinary problems in future posts.
In honor of the animals....especially our beloved animals who have passed, Champagne, TJ, Snow White, and Little,
Sarah
Since my last post, a few of you have asked me for more information on inflammation. Protease enzyme is only one choice to get inflammation under control. The right foods go a long way towards reducing inflammatory reactions. In fact, your food is really your best medicine against out of control inflammation in the body.
Let’s start with what foods to avoid. Many common foods ignite inflammation, tax enzyme stores, and imbalance prostaglandin (hormone-like chemicals) and insulin production.
Highly inflammatory foods to avoid:
Refined sugar
Refined carbohydrates/White flour
Hydrogenated oils/Trans fats
Processed foods/Fast Foods
Corn fed conventional red meats
Hormone injected dairy products
Unfortunately, these are the foods many Americans are eating on a regular basis. To put the brakes on inflammatory reactions, it’s important to avoid these foods whenever possible.
In contrast, a natural foods diet, with plenty of enzyme-rich fresh fruits and vegetables, and foods high in EFAs (essential fatty acids) is both alkalizing and anti-inflammatory.
Anti-inflammatory foods to include as part of your balanced diet:
Omega 3 rich seafood
Sea vegetables
Land vegetables
Olive oil
Flax seed oil
Nuts and seeds
Berries
Apples
Cantaloupe
It is important to note that some otherwise healthy foods cause inflammation when overconsumed or when eaten by people with food allergies or sensitivities. A few examples to be aware of: dairy (even organic), soy, corn, eggs, wheat products and nightshade plants like tomatoes, eggplants and potatoes.
Chronic dehydration also plays a role in inflammatory reactions, so make sure you are drinking plenty of water. Next time, I’ll talk more about specific herbs with anti-inflammatory properties and how to use them for the best results.
Best wishes,
Sarah
Today I want to share what I've recently learned about out of control inflammation, and how protease enzyme may be able to help.
Inflammation is really a normal bodily response to illness or injury. It's a natural part of the healing process, alerting the immune system macrophages to attack pathogens and repair damaged cells. But out of control, longterm inflammation does more harm than good. We know it's a common denominator in pain syndromes like arthritis, fibromyalgia, lupus, allergies, tendonitis, and bursitis. The latest research shows chronic inflammation plays a role in cardiovascular disease, too. Inflammation of the arteries can accelerate the progression of heart disease. High levels of C reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory agent, are actually a stronger risk factor for heart disease than high cholesterol.
Unfortunately, there's more bad news. Experts now theorize that at least 30% of cancers result from chronic inflammation or infection, which, in turn, causes inflammation. Alzheimer’s disease is believed to be at least partially caused by inflammation of the brain. Inflammation is also involved in diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome X. The latest research shows that the body responds to an excess of fat cells as if they were a bacterial infection! The aging process itself creates inflammation because the immune system must work even harder to clean out increased dead cells.
You may be asking, how does protease enzyme fit into this picture?
The Power of Protease
Today plant enzyme proteases (protein digesting enzymes) are powerful therapeutic agents used in natural medicine. While they are not a “cure all” for disease, I believe their ability to reduce inflammation makes them a valuable asset in any natural health program. Taken with food as part of a digestive enzyme formula, protease does a fine job of helping the body digest protein. But, it can truly do much more than help out after a heavy holiday meal.
Taken on an empty stomach, protease goes directly to the bloodstream and can reach most body tissues for rapid anti-inflammatory action. Protease also assists the body in removing undesirable proteins in the blood- a major cause of health imbalance.
Here area few protease's remarkable actions:
• Protease reduces inflammation from injuries and wounds and speeds recovery time.
• Protease promotes recovery from immune deficiency. Protease helps dissolve the fibrin coating on abnormal cells, allowing the body’s defenses to function better.
• Protease helps shrink abnormal growths by stimulating the removal of dead or abnormal tissue while enhancing healthy tissue growth.
• Protease is a potent antioxidant that helps break down scar tissue.
• Protease reduces food sensitivities and purifies your blood. Malabsorption of protein is a common problem for people with food sensitivities.
• Protease helps beautify your skin. Skin concerns, like acne or rosacea often greatly improve.
I use Dr. Enzyme™ for inflammation relief in my personal healthy healing program. I've had particularly good results with protease for overcoming colds and flu, healing cysts and reducing scar tissue. I've heard very good feedback for reducing ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids, too.
Please note that while protease is very safe, it is a mild blood thinner and can sometimes aggravate stomach ulcers. Avoid high doses if you have a stomach ulcer, before surgery, if using anti-coagulant drugs or if you have a blood-clotting disorder.
I hope you are all enjoying a happy, healthy holiday season.
All the best,
Sarah
Do you or someone you love have diabetes? I’m betting your answer is yes.
November is national diabetes month, and I want to share with you natural solutions you can start using today to prevent diabetes complications and get your blood sugar back into a healthy balance.
Diabetes is a serious disease which has reached epidemic levels in America. Today, 17 million people suffer from diabetes. Many more people have the disease and don’t even know it. Type 2 diabetes cases are even rising among young adults and children. In type 2 diabetes, the most common type, the pancreas is unable to use insulin properly or has too little insulin, the hormone that allows sugar to be stored or used for energy. It’s a vicious cycle where poor fat and sugar metabolism lead to weight gain… which then leads to diabetes. The cycle keeps going. Diabetes makes you more hungry, so symptoms are aggravated as well as brought on by eating too much fat and too many sugary foods.
Complications from diabetes are the fourth leading cause of death by disease in the world today. Heart disease, high blood pressure, retinopathy (loss of vision), nerve damage, kidney problems, arteriosclerosis, and circulatory problems are all major problems that face diabetics. But there is a lot of hope. While some cases need to be managed medically, many type 2 diabetics can balance their blood sugar by following a low glycemic, low fat diet and getting regular exercise.
An important note on type 1 diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is a juvenile, autoimmune condition where the body destroys its own insulin-producing cells. Today scientists are working with Islet-cell transplants as a possible cure with some success. However, at this point, type 1 diabetes is a chronic problem that is almost entirely dependent on insulin to sustain life.
Diabetes Risk Factors
People with a family history of the disease (particularly African Americans), who are overweight, or who get little or no exercise are at the highest risk. A diet high in refined sugar and refined carbohydrates is another factor. Sugar has become an entire food group, counting for an astounding 20% of total daily calories for adult Americans! But a high sugar diet overworks, then damages the pancreas, so your body can’t produce or correctly use insulin. As refined carbohydrates and sugars cease to be metabolized, they accumulate in the body and are stored as fat. Excess body fat and lack of exercise then bring on insulin resistance.
Do you have high blood sugar warning signs?
—extreme thirst with frequent urination
—slow healing cuts and wounds; chronic infections
—recent weight loss or weight gain without diet changes
—severe, unexplained fatigue
—blurry vision
If you have diabetes warning symptoms, seek medical advice. Testing your blood sugar when you get up in the morning can also provide some helpful clues. Home blood glucose monitoring kits are available from most pharmacies.
Natural Therapies Rebalance Body Systems
1. Start with diet improvements. Do not skip meals. Most diabetics should eat 6 mini-meals a day, especially if they’re on insulin therapy. Ask your physician.
• Focus on a largely plant-based, fresh foods diet for complex carbohydrates that don’t require much insulin for metabolism. Make sure you are getting high quality protein from fish, legumes, and green superfoods like barley grass and spirulina. Add high fiber vegetables, and whole grains like oats and brown rice to stabilize sugar swings.
2. Consider herbal formulas to help control blood sugar. Note: If you’re on medication for diabetes, ask your doctor before using herbal formulas. Diabetics may need to reduce the dosage of their medication while using herbs.
• Sugar Control High caps contain herbs like cedar berry, fenugreek and wild yam that help lower high blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance.
• Ginseng therapy shows promise. In one study, ginseng significantly improved mood, physical performance and blood sugar control when compared to placebo. A new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine shows taking American ginseng before meals reduces the blood sugar spikes that occur in diabetics after eating. Crystal Star uses a blend of ginseng species and ginseng-like herbs in Great Ginseng!™ caps for their powerful sugar balancing, energy and immune support.
Diet improvements are absolutely necessary to overcoming type 2 diabetes and avoiding its complications. A healthy, natural foods diet, in addition to reducing insulin requirements and balancing blood sugar, has the nice “side effects” of healthy weight loss and better heart protection. Regular exercise and certain natural supplements are important to normalize high blood sugar swings, too. If you crave sweets, consider natural sweeteners like stevia and luohan fruit which taste great and are safe for diabetics and people with hypoglycemia.
Fall has most certainly arrived, from the chill in the air to the turning of the leaves, this is a time of reflection and rememberance. In fact, Harvest-time has been a season of celebration for all of recorded history, among all the many tribes of humanity.
Unfortunately, it's also the beginning of the cold and flu season. If you want to protect yourself and your family, this is the time to start. Whether it's a head cold or a more serious stomach flu, this is most definitely the season for sneezing. So, how do you tell the difference between a cold and the flu? Read the Self-Test at the bottom of this post.
o what can you do about it? In the face of this annual assault on our health, I've developed four different whole-herb formulas which--taken together or separately--are designed to support and maintain a healthy immune system, and its ability to fight off infection.
-Linda
Menopause isn’t all about hot flashes and night sweats. Many women say that menopause is affecting their sex lives. It seems that women’s libidos are at all time low. The latest statistics find that as many as 50% of adult women have lost interest in sex or have difficulty becoming aroused.
Even a minute imbalance in hormones can contribute to low libido or vaginal dryness, the two main sexual problems women face today. Vaginal dryness caused by dropping estrogen levels makes sex uncomfortable and painful, and also raises the risk of certain infections. In addition, adrenal exhaustion and thyroid malfunction can cause a low libido, and they’re both at epidemic levels in America today, especially for women after menopause.
Unfortunately, most aphrodisiacs for women on the market today use highly concentrated forms of caffeine to excite sexual response. For many women, this aggravates anxiety and moodiness, so we have avoided it in Crystal Star formulas. Very small amounts of natural caffeine from sources like guarana and kola nut in Women's Healthy Libido™ work better for women over the long term, with less risk of side effects. Dr. Linda Page, author of the bestselling book Healthy Healing, recommends women use a formula like Women's Healthy Libido™ for about a week before a romantic weekend.
Here’s another tip: Women's Healthy Libido™ works especially well with Women’s Dryness™ extract, a combination of specially chosen herbs, which helps women maintain vaginal moisture for healthy sexuality.
Your sexuality doesn’t have to end just because you’re in menopause. Sexuality in the second half of life can be better than ever!
I get so many questions about women's fertility problems that I thought that I would give you a few of my observations, and make a few suggestions.
In modern times we're seeing more infertility than ever. In this day and age, the best time to start a family for a woman and per partner may not be at her "reproductive peak": she may have career goals she needs to accomplish first, perhaps she seeks the added financial stability that comes with having a few more years under her belt, or maybe she just hadn't met her ideal life-partner yet. Further, years of oral contraceptive use can disrupt normal ovulation cycles for many women.
In addition, from the food we eat and the water we drink, even to the air we breathe, our bodies are surrounded by a "toxic soup" of environmental pollutants and hormone-mimicking chemicals that put an even greater strain on our reproductive system. There are many steps you can take, from avoiding certain types of fish that tend to be more contaminated with heavy metals, to embracing organically-grown produce that has fewer pesticides and chemical fertilizer residues, to trying a detoxification program once or twice a year to clear out toxins that affect reproductive health.
Of course, I always view situations like this from the perspective of an herbalist. I always suggest that women accept Mother Nature's healing gift in the form of whole herbs that support, cleanse, and ensure proper functioning of a woman's reproductive system. I have put together a new Woman's Fertility Kit to help women who are wanting to start a family. The kit features my new book (co-written with my friend and colleague, Sarah Abernathy), a nourishing herbal tea, two targeted combination whole-herb capsules, Evening Primrose Pearl softgels, Vitex Extract (also known as Chaste Tree Berry), and an instructional guide including a diet and healing plan.
Woman's Fertility Kit Includes:
As a bonus, by buying the kit you save 20% off the retail price!
- Linda
It's my pleasure to announce the immediate availability of my newest book, Do You Want to Have a Baby? a collaboration with my friend and research director, Sarah Abernathy. We've had so many requests for this book over the years that we've lost count, and we're so excited to finally be able to bring this vital information to the people who need it the most.
Millions of Americans struggle with fertility problems. Most can overcome them with simple lifestyle changes and natural therapies. Do You Want to Have a Baby? covers optimal nutrition for conception, the best fertility-enhancing supplements, and the documented success of bodywork therapies. The book also addresses the heartbreak of miscarriage and how to improve your chances if you're at risk.
Do You Want to Have a Baby? includes our step-by-step diet for nutritional demands during pregnancy with special suggestions for women expecting multiples. It provides our detailed recommendations on herbs you can use safely during pregnancy and nursing, and what to avoid. An expanded section on the special problems of pregnancy reveals the best natural therapies to reduce fatigue, hemorrhoids, morning sickness, labor pain, stretch marks, swollen ankles and many other common complaints. This 176-page, easy-to-read guide explains your options for labor and delivery, how to avoid unnecessary medical interventions, and even offers special recommendations for losing post-pregnancy weight. Look for the bonus section on natural baby care!
-Linda
