excerpt from the book -the Vitamin Code -Scurvy was a deadly disease?

lou_lou · 09-01-2008, 05:23 PM

Doctors and scientists back then didn’t know that scurvy
resulted from a lack of vitamin C in the diet. Nor were they aware
that vitamin C was found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes,
and grapefruit, and also in tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, and green
peppers. Meanwhile, scurvy remained a vexing problem on the ocean
blue since sailing ships didn’t have refrigeration to stock perishable
fruits and vegetables in their holds.

The deadly disease also struck those left behind on land. Medieval
adults and children on terra firma succumbed when fresh fruits
and vegetables weren’t available during the winter months—or
times of famine and plague. In the 16th and 17th centuries, more than
one hundred scurvy epidemics ravaged Europe, including Ireland’s
Great Potato Famine. (Potatoes contain vitamin C and were the Irish’s
main source of that vitamin.)

Medical experts at the time thought scurvy was something
contagious but had no idea what brought on the deadly disease.
It wasn’t until 1747 when a Scottish naval surgeon, James Lind,
happened upon a dramatic cure without understanding that vitamin
C was involved. During one experiment, Dr. Lind treated scurvyridden
sailors with lemons and oranges. Overnight, they rebounded
from death’s door. Despite this discovery that something in the
citrus fruits kept seafarers from contracting scurvy, it was still
another 50 years before the British Navy stocked their ship holds
with lime juice. (And now you know why the British are called “limeys”
in period Hollywood films.)

Scurvy is a historical footnote today since supermarkets readily
stock dozens of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C the entire year.
Yet even with an abundance of farm-fresh produce available on
store shelves year round, doctors today are seeing patients with
significant vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Baby boomers—
especially older women—lack enough vitamin D and calcium in
their blood to prevent osteoporosis, a disease in which bones
become brittle and threaten to break. Bone loss accelerates after
menopause when estrogen levels decline; we’ve all seen the sad
image of a woman hunched over with a dowager’s hump. In a
review of women with osteoporosis that were hospitalized for hip
fractures, 50 percent were found to have signs of vitamin D
deficiency, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Rickets, another bone-debilitating disease, has made a comeback
in recent years among children. Two hundred years ago, rickets was
so common in poorer parts of Dickensian England that it was called
“The English Disease.” Once scientists discovered in the 20th century
that vitamin D eradicated rickets, the disease became so rare that the
U.S. government stopped keeping statistics on it.

pdf - free book download -
http://www.thevitamincode.com/Home/V...6/Default.aspx

lou_lou · 09-01-2008, 11:30 PM

Natural herbal medicine information
An Introduction to Potential Benefits of Herbs and Plants This information is designed to give consumers an introduction to some of the more well-known benefits of some common herbs and plant products. The information presented here is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the treatment, cure, diagnosis or mitigation of a disease or condition.

Acacia is used as a demulcent (soothes irritated mucous membranes). In Indian medicine Acacia is used for treatment of diarrhea.
Acetyl Choline (ACh) is produced from Choline and Pantothenic Acid. It is one of the principal brain neurotransmitters
Acidophilus is one of several strains of bacteria known collectively as probiotics (literally, "pro life", indicating that that they are bacteria that help rather that harm). It establishes itself in our intestines and helps prevent intestinal infections
AdenosineTriPhosphate (ATP) is sometimes called the body’s “common energy currency,” or “high-energy compound.” ATP, as it’s name exhibits, contains three phosphate groups. The energy in the phosphate bonds is greater than the energy in most other chemical bonds. The body uses ATP to carry its energy currency, build body structures, and do other work as needed. It is the primary fuel for muscles.
Alfalfa (flower, leaf, sprouts) has been used to treat digestive tract disorders by Chinese physicians. Ayurvedic physicians in India have prescribed the leaves and flowers for poor digestion.
Alfalfa (Medico sativa) along with Salvia officinalis (Sage) was found to be an effective agent in the treatment of menopausal symptoms
Aloe Vera (pulp) primarily used to treat constipation and intestinal infection, although it has many other uses.
Apple Pectin is used in the pharmaceutical industry to reduce blood cholesterol levels and gastrointestinal disorders.
Artemesia Annua (Sweet Annie) is used to cleanse the intestinal tract of parasites.
Ashwagandha (Withania somniferum) supports the immune system and promotes general well health. Ultimate Libido
Astragalus stimulates the immune system. It appears to increase the number of stem cells in the marrow and lymph tissue, and stimulates their development into active immune cells.
Avena Sativa - Studies at the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality have shown that Avena Sativa helps improve interest in sex. Researchers at the institute have discovered that Avena Sativa works by freeing up testosterone.
Beta-Glucan is derived from cell walls of nutritional yeasts. It helps support healthy cellular immune responses and thymus gland function through activation of macrophages. - Advanced Arthritis
Bifodobacterium Longum supports immune system to help cope with being run down. Helps maintain a healthy digestive system .
Bilberry is important in increasing circulation to the genitals, and improving blood supply to the penis
Bioflavonoids are a class of water-soluble plant pigments. They are divided into the following subcategories: isoflavones, anthocyanins, flavans, favonols, flavones, and flavanones. Some bioflavonoids support health as anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, and antiviral agents.
Black Currant Seed is rich in gamma linolenic acid (GLA). It has anti-inflammatory properties and an immune-enhancing effect.
Black Cohosh (Cimicufuga racemosa) is used to promote health during menopause. A review of eight human studies on the effectiveness of Black Cohosh concluded that it is a safe and effective alternative to estrogen replacement therapy for women.
Buchu (leaf) used in traditional herbal medicine as a urinary tract disinfectant and diuretic.
Burdock (root) helps to clear the blood stream of toxins
Butchers Broom (root) is used as a diuretic as well as an anti-inflammatory.
Carotenoids are the major yellow and red pigments in many fruits and vegetables. It has antioxidant and immune-enhancing properties
Cascara Sagrada (bark) an approved over the counter treatment for constipation.
Cayenne (Capsicum annuum) has been used for centuries to enhance blood circulation. It also acts as an analgesic (pain reliever) and anti-inflammatory agent.
Chamomile - is known for its calming effect on smooth muscle tissue, and is a popular remedy for nervous stomach, menstrual cramps, and problems related to stress
Chaparral (leaf) used primarily to help with cramping pain, joint pains, and allergic problems, as well as to eliminate parasites.
Citrus Bioflavonoids are natural substances found in citrus fruits. Bioflavonoids help protect capillaries, prevent bruising and intensify the effect of Vitamin C. In addition to Vitamin C, Citrus Bioflavonoid provide folic acid, potassium, pectin, and many phytochemicals.
Cordyceps Sinensis is a plant of the ergot family and is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy for increasing energy and vitality
Cordyceps Sinensis is a plant of the ergot family and is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy for increasing energy and vitality
Damiana is noted for improving sexual desire and performance.
Dandelion (root) used to treat the liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. It is also considered a blood purifier.
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is referred to as the "female ginseng." In Traditional Chinese medicine it is used to balance the female hormonal system. Additionally it aids in problems related to peripheral circulation. Dong Quai is a traditional Chinese remedy for regulating menstrual cycles, reducing cramping, and hot flashes. Although Dong Quai does not have phytoestrogenic properties, it does have anti-spasmotic properties especially on smooth muscles.
Fenugreek (seed) used for treatment of digestive and kidney problems.
Echinacea is used to prevent and treat the common cold, influenza and infections.
Garlic - has been demonstrated in over thirty two human studies to lower serum cholesterol levels, specifically LDL
Genistein the principle isoflavonoid in soybeans, is reported to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Ginkgo Biloba. The active components of ginkgo biloba, ginkgoheterodsides and the terpene lactones, enhance the flow of oxygen and blood to the brain and improve transmission of nerve impulses, supporting mental acuity. Ginkgo biloba offers nutritional support to the vascular system by sustaining the strength and elasticity of blood vessels and capillaries.
Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale) supports a healthy cardiovascular system, prevents nausea and has been shown to decrease inflammation and platelet aggregation. Has ability to increase digestive fluids, plus absorb and neutralize toxins and stomach acid. Ginger has also been shown to increase bile secretion, as well as increase the action and tone of the bowels.
Gotu Kola has memory enhancing properties. Gotu Kola is also used to keep veins strong, and reduce symptoms of connective tissue diseases.
Guarana (Paullinia cupana) contains Guaranine which is similar to caffeine. It is used to stimulate the central nervous system and boosts energy.
Horny Goat Weed The provocative name of this herb may not sound serious but in reality, Epimedium Grandiflorum can provide a serious sexual boost. Horny Goat Weed has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years. In men, the herb reputedly promotes sexual desire and sperm production, and has been used to treat sexual impotence. In women, the herb has primarily been used to fight fatigue and alleviate postmenopausal hypertension
Horsetail (stem) recommended to help keep bones and nails strong, as well as for treatment of urinary disorders.
Iodine helps metabolize excess fat and is critical for mental development. Iodine deficiency is the greatest single cause of preventable brain damage and mental retardation in the world. It also aids in the functioning of the thyroid gland.
Irish Moss also known as Carrageen and Pearl Moss is a seaweed that grows off the coast of France and Ireland. It is used to sooth the gastrointestinal tract.
Kava Kava - is a unique herb. It has a remarkable ability to promote relaxation without any loss in mental sharpness
Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng) has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years to bolster the immune system and invigorate the body in times of fatigue
Ligustrum is the main active compound in the plant Ligustrin. Lingustrum is often combined with Astralagus to stimulate the immune system.

Macuna Pruriens Mucuna pruriens, commonly known as cowitch, velvet bean or dopa bean, contains naturally occurring L-dopa (l-dihydroxyphenylalanine), and has been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for centuries for men with erectile problems and women with low libido. The L-Dopa content provides much of Mucuna’s benefits. Optimizing dopamine levels appears to increase testosterone levels and elevates mood. Dopamine is also used to increase natural human growth hormones. A recent study revealed that the herb is useful in improving sexual performance in men, especially those 50 years and older, who had normal androgen levels.

Manganese is an essential trace mineral primarily found in the bone, liver, pancreas, and brain. It is necessary for proper digestion, sex hormone production, and is a catalyst in the breakdown of fats and cholesterol. Manganese deficiency has been traced to abnormalities in brain function. Lower levels of magnesium have been found to be common among migraine sufferers.
Nettle Root Extract - Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) exhibits an antiproliferative effect on human prostate cancer cells, and in animal studies was successfully used to treat BPH. Nettles have been used for centuries for the treatment of asthma, as an expectorant, antispasmodic, and astringent.
Oat Bran the Food and Drug Administration announced that claims may be made that oats reduce the risk of heart attack provided they are part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol
Parsley (root, stem) helps increase urine volume to help prevent kidney stone formation, and urinary tract infections.
Pantothenic Acid is a key brain vitamin better known as Vitamin B-5 It is used in the manufacture of red blood cells, hormones, and acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter responsible for carrying signals between nerve cells in the brain. It helps convert proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into energy, improves the body's resistance to stress. acid aids in the functioning of the adrenal glands and helps the body produce natural cortisone. Cortisone counteracts allergens and reduces allergic symptoms.
Papain is an enzyme extracted from the juice of unripe papaya fruit. It is used to treat inflammations and accelerates wound healing.
Passion Flower has been used for centuries as an aid to sleep. Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata) is often used as a sedative and antispasmodic.
Pumpkin Seed (Cururbita Pepo) A clinical study conducted in Germany in 1997 demonstrated that pumpkin seeds are beneficial for the treatment of mild to moderate BPH and their use seems well justified
Red Raspberry (Rubus Idaeus) has been used in folk medicine as a female tonic for relieving excessive menstrual flow (menorrhagia), to relive nausea, prevent nausea, prevent spotting, to tone the uterus in preparation for childbirth, and to reduce the pain of childbirth. It has also been used to relieve diarrhea, flu and vomiting.
Rhodiola Extract is known as a powerful adaptogen. Adaptogens are plant substances that help the body adapt to stress by increasing the ability of cells to manufacture and use cell fuel more efficiently
Rosemary (leaf) is considered to antibacterial effects and to relax smooth muscles in the lungs.
Royal Jelly comes from worker bees to feed the queen. It is her only food. It contains all essential amino acids as well as vitamins. It stimulates the adrenal glands and has a positive effect on mood and sex drive. Royal Jelly is the final ingredient of the beehive and is one of the world's richest sources of B Vitamins, useful in combating stress, fatigue and insomnia. B Vitamins are also necessary for healthy skin, hair, and proper digestion.
Safflower (flower) used as a laxitive and also to induce sweating and helps to clear the lungs.
Siberian Ginseng has been shown to enhance mental acuity and physical endurance without the let down that comes with caffeinated products. It increases energy, stamina, and vitality.
Spirulina Water grown plant one of the most highly concentrated, food on the planet. It is the highest natural source of complete protein known (75%). Contains high concentrations of Beta-Carotene, Alpha-Carotene, and Lycopene .
St. John's Wort A number of clinical studies have shown that the extract of St. John's Wort was as effective as prescription drugs in relieving depression, anxiety and insomnia.
Vitamin A (Beta Carotene) is found in foods including yellow-orange fruits and vegetables; dark green, leafy vegetables; vitamin A-fortified milk; liver; and margarine. Vitamin A comes in two different forms, retinols and beta-carotene. Retinols are found in foods that come from animals ( meat, milk, and eggs). The form of vitamin A found in plants is called beta-carotene (which is converted to vitamin A in the body). Food processing may destroy some of the vitamins. For example, freezing may reduce the amount of vitamin A in foods. Vitamin A is necessary for repair and growth of body tissues. It is used in the treatment of vision problems, breast cancer, and skin wrinkling. It helps build resistance to respiratory infections and aids in the proper function of the immune system.
Zallouh Root The powers of this root were purportedly known by King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. Since biblical times Zallouh has been used as an aphrodisiac. Recent clinical studies validate its efficacy and safety as a treatment for erectile dysfunction in men. The active ingredient appears to be ferulic acid, which dilates blood vessels and stimulates circulation boosting sexual function.
Zinc is probably the single most important nutrient for a healthy prostate. The normal prostate gland contains more zinc than any other organ. Zinc is an antioxidant nutrient necessary for protein synthesis, wound healing, male hormone production, and reproductive organ health. It is important for protein synthesis and collagen formation. It is an anti-oxidant that boosts immunity. Combined with Vitamin A, it also supports healthy eye function.

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