Nature offers safe and effective blood thinning alternatives to mainstream drugs

Millions of people in the United States take either prescription medications, aspirin or a combination of those drugs to thin their blood. The problem with prescription blood thinners and aspirin is that they all have a number of side effects associated with them, some of which can be fatal. The good news is that nature offers several effective options that are effective and far safer.

Typically, blood thinners are prescribed if you have some kind of heart or blood vessel disease or if you have poor blood flow to your brain. Blood thinners are also prescribed for:

* High blood pressure caused by restricted blood vessels
* Atrial fibrillation (an abnormal heart rhythm)
* Heart valve surgery
* Congenital heart defects

There are two main types of blood thinners. Anticoagulants, such as heparin or warfarin (also called Coumadin), work on chemical reactions in the body to lengthen the time it takes for blood clot formation. Antiplatelet drugs, such as Plavix (Clopidogrel) and aspirin prevent blood cells called platelets from clumping together to form a clot.

Natural Blood Thinners

Two excellent natural blood thinners are cayenne pepper and vitamin C. Both are excellent for the blood vessels and overall cardiovascular health and both are high in antioxidants. Cayenne pepper, sometimes referred to as "the King of Herbs," is considered by many to be the best natural item for the heart. Vitamin C is especially important for maintaining healthy blood vessels.

Turmeric, the major component of the common kitchen spice curcumin, has a world of health benefits including being a good natural blood thinner. It is also a natural immune modulator, a natural anti-inflammatory and is increasingly being recognized as a potent cancer fighter and cancer preventive.

Garlic is widely recognized as one of the most beneficial natural plants for health and is another effective natural blood thinner, thanks primarily to its salicylate content. Salicylates are found in a large number of over the counter medications and are the primary blood thinning agent in aspirin. Garlic is especially good for cardiovascular health and is also a potent natural pathogen destroyer.

Onions, which also contain salicylates, are also good natural blood thinners.

Other good natural blood thinners include:

* Bromelain
* Water
* Cinnamon
* Dill
* Oregano
* Dried fruits and berries, such as raisins, cranberries, prunes and cherries
* Vitamin B6
* Vitamin E
* Gingko biloba

Exercise is also a good natural blood thinner and consuming more vegetables and fruits helps guard against thick blood and other conditions which can lead to the need for blood thinners.

Hawthorn berry is an excellent supplement for cardiovascular health and is particularly effective against atrial fibrillation.

Also, taking several digestive enzymes a few times daily on an empty stomach can help eliminate arterial plaque and dissolve blood clots.

Sources included:

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/bloodthinners.html
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000040/
http://www.naturalnews.com
http://www.healtharticles101.com
http://www.tbyil.com/cayenne_pepper.htm
http://www.tbyil.com/healing_heart_disease.htm

Author: Tony Issacs

 

Source:: http://www.naturalnews.com/036286_blood_thinners_natural_remedies_alternatives.html#ixzz1yqSbsF3s

Watermelon extract lowers blood pressure better than dangerous pharmaceuticals

Heart disease and stroke continue to be the leading cause of death in the US, as vascular deterioration and dysfunction result in hypertension and ultimately, an early demise. Elevated blood pressure results in micro-cracks to the delicate endothelial lining of the blood vessels that must be patched by plaque (formed largely of circulating oxidized LDL cholesterol and calcium particles), beginning the process of atherosclerosis and greatly increased risk of heart attack.

Natural methods of lowering high blood pressure can allow the body to heal damaged vessels and arteries, dramatically lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. Researchers from Florida State University have published the result of a study in the American Journal of Hypertension that explains how natural watermelon extract helps reduce moderately elevated blood pressure by providing a rich source of the amino acids, citrulline and arginine, both known to relax vascular pressure.

Watermelon extract lowers blood pressure to normal range for many suffering from hypertension

In prior studies, citrulline and arginine have been shown as effective agents to reduce blood pressure, but further research was necessary to validate the results. The scientists recruited fourteen volunteers with an average age of 58 to receive either a concentrated watermelon extract (providing six grams of a citrulline/arginine mixture daily) or a placebo for a period of six weeks. They then observed a two week washout period with no supplementation before crossing over to the other group.

At the end of the study, researchers found that systolic pressure (upper blood pressure number) in the supplemented group was lowered in the arm and ankle by 15.1 and 11.5mmHg respectively, compared to the placebo participants. Diastolic pressure was lowered by 7.6 and 7.8 mmHg. For many participants, this reduction was enough to lower blood pressure from a pre-hypertension state to a normal reading, significantly lowering the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Of greater importance is the fact that the results observed are similar or better to those found with dangerous prescription ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers so commonly prescribed like candy by allopathic practitioners. The study authors concluded "This study suggests that watermelon extract improves arterial function... cardiovascular events were lower by about two-fold in those with normal ankle systolic blood pressure than in those with high ankle systolic blood pressure during a 15-year follow-up." Researchers found that blood pressure is lowered in a dose-dependent manner with optimal results found with six grams of citrulline/arginine each day.

Sources for this article include:
http://www.nature.com/ajh/journal/v25/n6/full/ajh201220a.html
http://www.nutraingredients.com
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/204527.php

About the author:
John Phillip is a Health Researcher and Author who writes regularly on the cutting edge use of diet, lifestyle modifications and targeted supplementation to enhance and improve the quality and length of life. John is the author of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan', a comprehensive EBook explaining how to use Diet, Exercise, Mind and Targeted Supplementation to achieve your weight loss goal. Visit My Optimal Health Resource to continue reading the latest health news updates, and to download your Free 48 page copy of 'Your Healthy Weight Loss Plan'.

Source: http://www.naturalnews.com/036216_watermelon_extract_blood_pressure_remedies.html#ixzz1yMHzBO4o

7 medicinal herbs and spices that help lower blood pressure

High blood pressure is an epidemic that is currently sweeping across America. The fast lifestyle of fast food, soda and stress is starting to catch up on the average American, so much so that an estimated one in every three Americans has high blood pressure. This puts them at risk of heart disease, stroke and even kidney disease. Moreover, this condition is costing the country 93.5 billion dollars in health care services.

Putting too much faith in the medical establishment to find a cure for your high blood pressure may no longer be advisable in the least. The number of prescription drugs on the market and the cascade of variations suggest that a cure for blood pressure is not in the offing anytime soon.

Despite all the consequences associated with high blood pressure, it is still a condition that is preventable and easily managed. Observing a healthy balanced diet and enjoying an active, healthy lifestyle can help avoid the risk of high blood pressure as well as reduce one that is already elevated.

High blood pressure - A package of woe

There is no one identifiable cause for high blood pressure. A combination of factors like stress, alcohol, smoking, weight and lack of physical activity seem to have to come together to produce this problem, which is further compounded by family history and age.

Although it is a condition that if left unattended could gravitate to something worse, high blood pressure is not a disease. Taking proactive measures in preventing heart diseases, stroke and even kidney disease by managing your blood pressure may be the best decision you can make today.

While the idea of drug-free high blood pressure management through the use of herbs and spices has slowly been gaining ground, it is still treated with skepticism by the medical establishment. The reliance on prescription drugs, however, has not in any way shown that high blood pressure could be cured through this manner. There are still reports by patients who are currently using drugs to manage their high blood pressure that their condition has not shown any improvement, nor their quality of life. Instead, they have to deal with side effects and drugs that are expensive to maintain.

Spice up your life

In a published study featured in the Journal of Medicine, it was revealed that common spices can protect from heart disease and the deterioration brought about by aging. In the said study, researchers discovered a connection between the phenol content of certain herbs and spices and their capacity to prevent glycation and formation of AGE compounds that are responsible for premature aging and heart disease.

As a way to manage your blood pressure, herbs and spices are a fantastic way to increase the medicinal value of your food. Below are some herbs and spices you may have been enjoying with no idea as to their value:

1. Garlic - Garlic contains allicin, a substance which has antibacterial, antioxidant, lipid lowering and anti-hypertension properties. In a pilot study made at Clinical Research Center of New Orleans on whether garlic could lower blood pressure, nine patients with severe hypertension were given a garlic preparation containing 1.3 % allicin. Sitting blood pressure fell with a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure only five to 14 hours after the dose. Moreover, it was proven in a 2009 study that fresh garlic has more potent cardio-protective properties than processed garlic.

2. Cinnamon - Cinnamon not only prevents heart disease, it can also prevent diabetes. The Center for Applied Health Sciences in Ohio conducted a study of 22 subjects, half of which were given a 250mg of water soluble cinnamon daily while the other half were given placebo. It was discovered that those who drank cinnamon had a 13 to 23 percent increase in antioxidants connected with lowering blood sugar levels.

3. Onions - Onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant flavonol found to prevent heart disease and stroke. In a research study published in the Journal of Nutrition, subjects with hypertension experienced a decrease in their blood pressure by 7mmHg systolic and 5 mmHg diastolic as opposed to those who were taking placebo.

4. Olives - This herb is a significant part of the Mediterranean diet, recognized to be one of the healthiest in the world. Oil made from olives has been found to reduce blood pressure. In a study conducted on the importance of olive oil, Dr. L. Aldo Ferrara, Associate Professor at the Frederico II University of Naples in Italy discovered that the daily use of 40 grams of olive oil reduced the dosage of blood pressure medication in hypertensive patients by about 50 percent. Polyphenols in extra-virgin olive oil was credited for the significant reduction of blood pressure.

5. Oregano - This herb contains the compound carvacrol which has been proven to be effective against blood pressure. In a study conducted on animal subjects, by researchers from Eskisehir Osmangazi University in Turkey, carvacrol was found to reduce heart rate, mean arterial pressure as well as the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.

6. Hawthorn - This herb has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure. In one study conducted in Reading, UK, 79 type-2 diabetic patients were randomized to receive 1200 mg of hawthorn extract while another group received medication for high blood pressure. Results revealed that patients taking hawthorn by the end of the 16th week showed a reduction in their mean diastolic pressure.

7. Cardamom- In one study published in the Indian Journal of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 20 subjects newly diagnosed with primary hypertension were administered 3 g of cardamom powder. After the end of the 3 months, all the subjects experienced feelings of well-being without any side effects. Moreover, the study was able to demonstrate that blood pressure was effectively reduced. It also improved antioxidant status while breaking down blood clots without significantly altering blood lipids and fibrinogen levels.

Taking advantage of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of spices and herbs is an excellent way to boost your body's health. Herbs have low calorie content, increase the medicinal value of your food and allow you to use natural forms of lowering blood pressure. Mix them up with your soups, salads, fish and meat and vegetable dishes. It's a healthier and cheaper alternative to keeping bottles of prescription drugs and synthetic supplements.

Sources for this article:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/hbp/
http://www.naturalnews.com/033656_blood_pressure_treatments.html
http://orlandobchealth.com/the-blood-pressure-hoax/
http://www.allicinfacts.com/allicin01.htm
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8361870
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19722587
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20361714

Source: http://www.naturalnews.com/035689_medicinal_herbs_spices_blood_pressure.html#ixzz1tNOqLTeM

Optimum magnesium intake might prevent ADD/ADHD, Alzheimer's and mental decline

Magnesium, the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, plays a crucial role in activating over 300 chemical responses. It is responsible for the proper formation of bones, maintaining normal muscle function, regulating body temperature, and proper absorption of calcium. Increasingly, medical science is coming to believe that magnesium and other minerals missing from today's diet might prevent cognitive disorders such as ADD, ADHD and bipolar disorder, as well as help prevent Alzheimer's and mental decline as we age.

Eat and supplement wisely to avoid a magnesium deficiency

A deficiency in magnesium affects virtually every area of the body and can present itself with headaches, backaches, muscle spasms, heart arrhythmia, high blood pressure, PMS, osteoporosis, kidney stones, insomnia, anxiety, depression, tingling and numbness in limbs and extremities, and constipation. Magnesium is also a powerful immune modulator and magnesium deficiency has been linked to immune disorders and deficiencies, such as triggering or worsening the symptoms in such conditions as hyperthyroidism, fibromyalgia, Reynaud's and multiple sclerosis.

Magnesium is essential for the proper absorption of calcium. Many instances of magnesium deficiency are simply due to an excessive intake of calcium. We are told about the benefits of taking calcium but, sadly, magnesium (which is needed for proper calcium absorption) is very seldom mentioned. Too much calcium can actually be responsible for adverse health conditions. Dairy foods, for example, are rich in calcium and it is easy for dairy eaters to consume too much calcium if they do not balance their diet with foods rich in magnesium.

The premise that bone loss is due to a calcium deficiency has been proven to be incorrect. Too much calcium in the body is actually responsible for an increased risk of osteoporosis as well as kidney stones and heart attacks. For proper absorption, one should eat or supplement at a ratio of 2:1 calcium to magnesium.

Our Standard American Diet (SAD) is woefully lacking in proper nutrition such as magnesium. Toxins and additives in our diets often prevent our bodies from properly absorbing what little magnesium and other nutrients that we do consume - as do other culprits such as alcohol, caffeine, and smoking. Because magnesium is not produced by the body, it is important to eat and supplement wisely to make sure that the body receives the amount it needs.

Due to poor eating habits and mineral depleted soils, it is estimated that over 80 percent of the American population is deficient in magnesium. The US minimum RDA for magnesium is 420 mg for adult males and 320 mg for adult females. Clinical nutritionists, however, report mounting evidence that this level, in itself, is too low and contributes to the list of degenerative diseases caused by a magnesium deficiency. The optimum daily amount they recommend is between 500 to 700 mg a day.

It is important to eat healthy foods, focusing on as many raw fruits and vegetables as possible. Foods rich in magnesium include: spinach, avocado, bananas, almonds, cashews, dry roasted peanuts, peanut butter, raisins, oatmeal, crude wheat bran, crude wheat germ, whole wheat bread, halibut, cooked black-eyed peas, baked potato with skin, natural plain yogurt, brown long grained cooked rice, and cooked lentils.

Even with the best of diets, however, mineral depletion in the soil over the last hundred years makes it difficult to get enough magnesium through diet alone. Therefore, it is often important to make sure that the body is getting its required amount of magnesium through supplementation. Two excellent ways to supply your body with magnesium are by using transdermal magnesium oil and Epsom salt baths.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.naturalnews.com/025567_magnesium_calories_calcium.html

http://healthylifejournal.org

http://www.nutritionalmagnesium.org

http://www.naturalnews.com/029397_epsom_salt_magnesium.html

About the author:
Luella May is a natural health advocate helping people to heal naturally. She partners with Tony Isaacs, who authors of books and articles about natural health which includes the bestseller " href="http://www.rose-laurel.com">Cancer''''s Natural Enemy". Luella contributes to The Best Years in Life website (http://www.tbyil.com) which is geared to baby boomers and others wishing to avoid prescription drugs and mainstream managed illness and live longer, healthier and happier lives naturally. Luella co-moderates the CureZone " href=http://curezone.com/forums/f.asp?f=861"Ask Tony Isaacs"" forum as well as the Yahoo Health Group " href="http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/oleandersoup/ "Oleander Soup"" and hosts her own yahoo group focusing on the natural wellbeing of pets " href="The Best Years in Life Natural Health for Pets"".

Source: http://www.naturalnews.com/035047_magnesium_ADHD_Alzheimers.html#ixzz1nQXPlYCY

Licorice as treatment for Barrett's esophagus

Licorice, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a legume and member of the Fabaceae, or pea family. It has been used for over 3,000 years to treat a variety of ailments. Currently, medical studies support the use of licorice for the treatment of inflamed intestinal tissues, but its does much more than just that. Not only is licorice an adaptogen and strong anti-viral, but it can also be used specifically in the treatment of Barrett's esophagus.

Licorice contains Gylcyrrhizin, which is very biologically active. It has strong hypertensive properties and can bring blood pressure to dangerous highs. It also can act as antidiuretic, a mineralcoriticoid and can interact with drugs. When consumed, the body converts glycyrrhizin into glycyrrhetinic acid. The glycyrrhetinic acid has a pseudo-aldosterone effect in the body, causing the body to retain water and increase blood pressure. Because of this, most licorice used today is in the form of DGL or deglycyrrhizinated licorice, with the glycyrrhizin removed. This allows us to reap the benefits, without the danger of raising blood pressure. Studies have shown that DGL may increase mucous production and accelerate the healing of duodenal and gastric ulcers. It has also been proven effective in the treatment of chronic stomach discomfort and protect the stomach from NSAIDs (such as aspirin). In Barrett's esophagus, due to stress on the tissue, normal epithelial cells are replaced by cells similar to those lining the intestinal tract. Since licorice targets these cells specifically, it has strong potential to help heal tissue damage related to Barrett's esophagus.

How DGL helps heal Barrett's esophagus

DGL can be used in chewable form to coat the esophagus and have a direct effect on the mucosal tissue. The salivary enzymes release the healing properties, increase absorption and stimulate healing to occur immediately as it is swallowed. DGL addresses Barrett's esophagus in many ways. It can decrease inflammation, reduce discomfort, heal the gastric tissues and even reduce the gastric spasms that often cause the acid and tissue irritation to leak in the first place.

There are many active constituents behind the vast healing powers of DGL. The root of the licorice plant contains 10 triterpenes and 22 flavonoids. Licorice's flavonoids, including isoliquiritigen, help inhibit acid secretion and prevent the growth of harmful intestinal bacteria. Licorice magnifies the effect of the mucus by increasing blood flow and promoting secretion, growth and activity of the protective mucosa cells. It provides both a protective mucus layer and deep anti-inflammatory effects. Licorice also reduces spasms in the visceral muscles, relaxing the tissue.

DGL can also increase the concentration of bilirubin in the bile. Bilirubin is a bile pigment created by the breakdown of heme in red blood cells. There is some debate on its healing or harmful effects. Although high concentrations of bilirubin often indicate disease, new studies show it can also act as a cellular antioxidant protecting tissues from free radical damage. Antioxidants are definitely desirable when preventing and repairing any tissue damage.

There is vast research on the overall medicinal benefits of Glycyrrhiza glabra, but not any clinical trials for the treatment of Barrett's esophagus specifically. Licorice shows great promise as a treatment for Barrett's esophagus and hopefully will soon have more research to back it up. Barrett's esophagus is a largely due to lifestyle, and the causative factors, such as smoking, drinking, and poor diet, must be removed if you truly wish to restore health, balance and happiness.

Never take any licorice products if pregnant or nursing. Always consult a doctor before initiating or changing your treatment plan.

Sources for this article include:

(2004). DGL for acid reflux. Alive: Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition. 258 (18).

Martin, H. (2010). DGL Licorice and Acid Reflux. Livestrong.com

Stormer F, Reistad R, & Alexander J. (1993). Glycyrrhizic acid in licorice- evaluation of a health hazard. Fd Chem Toxic 31:303-12.

Noe, J. (2010). Botanical Medicine I. Digestive Herbs Lecture. University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine.

About the author:
Lindsay Chimileski: I am a graduate medical student currently pursuing dual degrees in Naturopathic Medicine and Acupuncture, expecting to graduate in 2013. I have a passion for health education, patient empowerment and the restoration of balance- both on the individual and communal level. I believe all can learn how to live happily, in harmony with nature and in ways that support the body's innate ability to heal itself.

Please note: I am not a doctor and not giving any medical advice, just spreading the word and love of natural living, and the pressing health revolution.

http://blossomingconsciousness.com/
http://harmoniousvibrations.blogspot.com/

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