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1. Are You Feeling Uncomfortable in Your Own Skin?
2. What is Undecylenic Acid?
3. Increase your Lifespan
4. The Various Herbs Used for Neuropathy and What They Do
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Are You Feeling Uncomfortable in Your Own Skin?
Chronic inflammation is also referred to as slow, long-term inflammation. The effects of chronic inflammation can vary due to what causes it, and our bodies’ own ability to overcome the damage.
Inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism against pathogens (organisms that cause disease). It’s associated with many diseases, infections, radiation, toxic chemicals, and even obesity can cue this response. Alcohol and tobacco, and surprisingly, also a high calorie diet can cause inflammation to peak in the body.
When inflammation happens, chemical in your body’s white blood cells enter your blood tissue to protect your body from invaders.
Causes of Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can be caused by:
Untreated acute inflammation, caused by infection or injury
Auto immune disorder (when your immune system attacks healthy tissue)
Long-term exposure to irritants, which we all have because of the chemicals we come into contact with all the time. It’s not only industrial chemicals but also what’s circulating in the air.
Taking certain drugs, such as statins. Most people don’t know that cholesterol is your body’s response to inflammation. So, if you take a drug to force the cholesterol levels down, the inflammation just goes rampant.
Virtually everybody in the world has some form of underlying inflammation; it may not be significant, but we all have some underlying inflammation in our bodies.
The Old Saying that Stress Kills is Really True
Stress is the most common cause of an inflammatory condition. Stress causes the body to produce excess cortisol and other hormones in response. Stress creates a significant inflammatory response in the body.
Skin inflammation mostly occurs because of an immune system response. When the immune system gets tired, the body starts to re-route its resources away from the skin. That’s when you are prone to more skin conditions, and it takes longer to heal those conditions.
Chronic Inflammatory Skin Conditions
Your skin is a barometer – a way to identify when things are going awry in the body. When you have a skin condition, it’s a sign that something else is brewing in the body that’s detrimental to your health.
Some chronic inflammatory skin conditions are acne, dermatitis, drug rashes, psoriasis, and eczema. Psoriasis and eczema are a significant issue today. They can run in a family, but they are most often triggered by allergens, extreme temperatures, and most often stress.
Eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis can make it very challenging to be comfortable in your own skin. Skin problems affect many Americans. 5 to 7 million have eczema. Another 7.5 million have psoriasis and 12.5 million have dermatitis. One of the conditions that comes with dermatitis caused by inflammation is dandruff. Almost 30 million people in America have one of these skin conditions.
Ways to Improve Skin
Tips for clearer skin:
Wash your face with clean, pure water. Avoid foreign contaminants like fragrance or harsh chemicals in the facewash or soap.
Apply a good, natural moisturizer to act as a barrier between your skin and the environment.
Don’t wear heavy makeup as it will clog your pores.
Use a fragrance-free laundry soap. Additives in your soap will irritate the skin.
Don’t use fabric softeners – they also have additive ingredients that irritate the skin.
How to calm your skin:
Spray your face with a mist of fresh, purified water to counteract heat and irritation.
Use a calming moisturizer. Choose products with minimal ingredients.
Choose skin care products with natural, organic ingredients.
Cleanse daily.
Avoid harsh exfoliation or scrubbing as this will irritate your skin.
The most important way to avoid any of these inflammatory skin conditions is to keep our immune system as strong as possible. The easiest way is through diet. Eat anti-inflammatory foods such as:
Organic olives
Extra virgin olive oil
Tomatoes
Green, leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, or collard greens.
A small number of nuts like almonds or walnuts.
Fatty fish daily – salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines.
Strawberries and blueberries.
Polyphenols Can Help Lower Inflammation
Polyphenol extracts are one of the most effective anti-inflammatory substances. They work through free radical scavenging activity, effectively dampening down the body’s inflammatory response by regulating cell activity.
This is especially true of the skin. Remember, the skin is our largest organ. Research shows that organic olive polyphenols are one of the most effective anti-inflammatory substances. They contain a hydrocarbon called squalene. Squalene makes up most of the hydrocarbons in most phenol extracts. It’s one of the best hydrating ingredients you can take on a daily basis.
Another phenol found in olives is Hydroxytyrosol, which is known to be the most potent antioxidant in the world. Antioxidants are tested on the ORAC value – Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity. It’s the free radicals that destroy our cells. The ORAC value measure a compound’s ability to absorb free radicals. Hydroxytyrosol has an ORAC value of 68,000. That’s the highest, most potent antioxidant ever tested. It’s 15 times higher than green tea and 3 times higher than CoQ10.
We should all be taking these polyphenol compounds every day, and olive oil is one of the best ways to get them. That’s why the Mediterranean diet is so healthy. One of the key ingredients in this diet is olive oil.
Olive oil contains more than 36 phenolic compounds that fight inflammation. One specific compound known as oleocanthol is found in extra virgin olive oil and it has powerful natural anti-inflammatory benefits. In fact, it has been shown that oleocanthol has the same benefit as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen. It works on the exact same pathways in the body as NSAIDs do.
Tests also show that it can stop an inflammatory cascade by inhibiting the Cox 1 and Cox 2 inflammatory enzymes. This is significant – it’s a natural ingredient without any contra-indications. It creates an environment where the immune system can function properly, and any inflammatory skin condition can heal and gradually go away.
Inflammation Relief is a potent formulation of organic olive phenol extract that can provide the anti-inflammatory support you need to address chronic inflammation, and problem skin conditions. Inflammation Relief is 100% natural, non-GMO, Vegan and Keto friendly.
Qgenics offers a range of natural, plant-based supplements to support a healthier body. One of those supplements is Inflammation Relief, which was specifically formulated to handle chronic inflammation naturally. The result of reduced inflammation is better skin.
See Inflammation Relief for more information
What is Undecylenic Acid?
There are so many good natural anti-fungals out there, it can be hard to keep track of all of them. From caprylic acid, to olive leaf extract, to oregano oil, there is a seemingly never-ending supply of natural anti-fungals that you can rotate in and out of your Kaufmann Diet supplement regimen.
Rotating these anti-fungals is key too; fungi, like other organisms, can learn to adapt to their surroundings. By rotating your anti-fungals, you give fungi and yeasts less of a chance to become resistant to the natural medicines you are using to eliminate them. To that end, it is good to have a long list of reliable anti-fungals.
Undecylenic acid is one more of these nutrients.
Undecylenic acid is derived from the oil of castor bean, but it is also a natural component of human perspiration. It was first isolated in 1877. Undecylenic acid is a fatty acid, similar to omega 3 fatty acids or caprylic acid, which is derived from coconut oil. Although caprylic acid is thought to be one of the most potent natural anti-fungal nutrients, in some instances, undecylenic acid can be up to 6 times more potent than caprylic acid.
Undecylenic acid comes in a few different formulations. Among its most popular uses, however, is as a topical anti-fungal agent. This puts it in the same category as something like tea tree oil; it can be very effective at controlling and killing topical anti-fungal infections. Remember that you should never use topical formulations internally, and only use them as directed.
Doug Kaufmann theorizes that anyone who has a skin fungal problem likely has a problem with yeast internally, so controlling fungus on the skin is only part to the battle. To that end, undecylenic acid does come in some formulations that can be used internally, such Thorne’s SF722. These can be beneficial for controlling yeast in the gastrointestinal tract. Thorne’s product has been on the market for over two decades, however you should always consult your doctor before you begin taking SF722 or any other product.
Undecylenic is a powerful anti-fungal with scientific studies to back up its use. It is one more product that you can add into your arsenal of rotating anti-fungals. It is important to remember that natural––and even medicinal––anti-fungals work best when used with an anti-fungal diet and a sensible exercise regimen. However, these products can be extremely useful in restoring good health and ridding the body of pathogenic yeasts and fungi.
Increase your Lifespan
We all know that exercise helps us live longer, but the real question is why? If you look at the leading cause of death, it’s cardiovascular disease. An intriguing study found that people who were physically active had decreased their mortality rate by 30-40% and added 5 years to their life. Follow me as I dive further into how exercise increases your lifespan.
Why does Exercise increase your Lifespan
The Various Herbs Used for Neuropathy and What They Do
There are many different herbs being talked about in getting relief from neuropathy. What are they really?
It is important to understand the right dosage and the strength of the extracts used in formulas. It can vary a lot.
Here is a list of the various herbs, what they do, how long can they be taken, and any side effects.
THIS LIST IS NOT COMPLETE. We are still doing research on the various herbs and what they do.
Aloe Vera : This African native plant is used to treat various skin disorders like burns, wounds and infections. The juice extracted from this plant helps to improve blood and lymph circulation.
Arnica : This plant is commonly seen in Europe and other countries with large yellow flowers. This plant contains sesquiterpene lactones as active components which are useful to reduce inflammation and pain. It can stimulate the activities of white blood cells and improve blood circulation. It is used as a homeopathic pain killer.
Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) Root: This herb is used to promote the healing of bones. It has a calming effect on the body. It helps mental cognition, concentration and memory. It is useful for fatigue, aches, and frequent urination. It increases physical endurance and sexual function. It is thought to help diabetic neuropathy because it improves overall well-being. It can slow down the de-myelization of a damaged nerve as it is an anti-oxidant. It doesn't repair the nerve but can make the condition more tolerable.
Side effects: Ashwagandha is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth short-term. The long-term safety of ashwagandha is not known. Large doses of ashwagandha might cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. Ashwagandha can irritate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Don’t use ashwagandha if you have a stomach ulcer. Ashwagandha might cause the immune system to become more active, and this could increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases
Interactions with medications: do not take with medications that decrease the immune system, aka immunosuppressants (corticosteroids,Imuran, Rapamune, etc.) sedative medications (benzodiazapines - Klonopin, valium, ativan, etc.) CNS depressants (donnatal, ambien, etc.) Thyroid medications (minor interactions) See WebMD for more information. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist who can check their databases.
California Poppy: The promo for using this herb for neuropathy says that it can be just as effective as Vicodin for relieving pain but is also natural and crucially non-addictive.
Cayenne Pepper : This spicy dried chilli powder is a natural pain reliever. The chemical called Capsaicin found in this is a pungent substance that allows to transmit more neurotransmitters and it can temporarily inhibit nerve pain. It contains many essential vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin A and Vitamin B besides minerals like Potassium and Calcium. If applied plainly on skin it will give mild burning sensation.
Corydalis Yahhusuo: Claims are made that it alleviates nerve pain, anxiety and insomnia… more research is being done, but it is helping to relieve pain, not repairing nerves.
Cramp Bark (Vibumum opulus) Extract: It is used for gastrointestinal, genitourinary and skeletal muscle spasms. It can use useful for menstrual cramps when there is a large blood flow. It is used for asthma and may help with morning sickness, and other female problems including preventing miscarriage. It can relax the skeletal muscles and is good for leg cramps.
Side effects: May cause gastroenteritis. It cannot be taken with blood thinning medicatio becuase there is coumarin parts in the plant. It may cause hypotension in large doses or even in average dosages. Don't use it if pregnant without being treated by a qualified health car professional.
Cypress: Cypress plants are large trees found all over the world. It is abundant in Greece, Italy, Iran and some other Mediterranean region. The oil take from this plant is used as antispasmodic and antiseptic.
Evening Primrose: This herb is widely seen in US, the primrose oil is taken from the seeds of this plant.
Feverfew: It can help bring down a fever, treat aesthma, psoriasis, pre-menstrual disorders, and arthritis. Its main use is to prevent migraine headaches and lessen their severity. It is thought to help control neuropathy symptoms.
Feverfew is LIKELY SAFE for most people when used short-term (up to four months). The safety of feverfew beyond 4 months’ use has not been studied.
Side effects might include upset stomach, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation. bloating, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting. Other reported side effects include nervousness, dizziness, headache, trouble sleeping, joint stiffness, tiredness, menstrual changes, rash, pounding heart, and weight gain.
Interactions: Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Feverfew might decrease how quickly the liver breaks down some medications. Taking feverfew along with some medications that are broken down by the liver can increase the effects and side effects of some medications.
Before taking feverfew, talk to your healthcare provider if you take any medications that are changed by the liver. such as amitriptyline (Elavil), haloperidol (Haldol), ondansetron (Zofran), propranolol (Inderal), theophylline (Theo-Dur, others), verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, others), and others.
Some medications that are changed by the liver include omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), and pantoprazole (Protonix); diazepam (Valium); carisoprodol (Soma); nelfinavir (Viracept); and others. Some medications that are changed by the liver include diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren), ibuprofen (Motrin), meloxicam (Mobic), and piroxicam (Feldene); celecoxib (Celebrex); amitriptyline (Elavil); warfarin (Coumadin); glipizide (Glucotrol); losartan (Cozaar); and others. Some medications changed by the liver include lovastatin (Mevacor), ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), fexofenadine (Allegra), triazolam (Halcion), and many others.
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with FEVERFEW. Feverfew might slow blood clotting. Taking feverfew along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and others.
See WebMD for more information.
So, okay for use short term only. Feverfew will not, however, repair a nerve.
Ginkgo: The leaves of this plant contain substances that can thin the blood and help to improve muscle tone in the walls of the blood vessels. This can greatly help to improve the blood circulation.
Lobella: boosts circulation and helps support your nervous system.
Oat Straw Extract: Oat straw and the grain have also been prescribed in the treatment of a wide range of nervous conditions and help mood. It has also been shown to help with the exhaustion related to neurological pains or insomnia. Wild oat extract has the ability to reduce the effects of two enzymes tied to depression the same way some prescription medications do. It is also used for sexual enhancement and may help with lowering cholesterol and helping a person stop smoking.
There are no known drug or nutrient interaction associated with the use of oat straw but if you are allergic to oat flour it could be a good idea to stay clear of any products containing oat straw. Because oat straw contains gluten those suffering from celiac disease, or have a gluten intolerance should avoid it in any form.
Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata) Extract - Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) was used traditionally in the Americas and later in Europe as a calming herb for anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and hysteria. It is still used today to treat anxiety and insomnia. It has been said, by those trying to sell this herb for neuropathy that this herb helps cut off the “pain signals” sent to your brain every minute of the day. There is nothing about repairing of nerves.
Peppermint: This is hybrid plant commonly found all over the world. The peppermint oil is widely used in toothpastes and chest rubs because of its medicinal properties. When applied tropically it gives a soothing and cooling effect on skin.
Prickly Ash Bark: stimulates and exerts a gentle strengthening effect on the entire body.
Skullcap (Scutellaria Lateriflora) Extract - Skullcap is used for trouble sleeping (insomnia), anxiety, stroke, and paralysis caused by stroke. It is also used for fever, high cholesterol, “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis), rabies, epilepsy, nervous tension, allergies, skin infections, inflammation, and spasms.
None of these herbs build healthy nerves.
See also The Problem with Using Herbs for Neuropathy
Read: How to build Healthy Nerves?
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