I. Dietary Supplements & Hormone Replacement

A. Endocrine System

B. Pituitary & Hormone Regulation

C. Hormones Affect Organs & Tissues

D. Growth Hormone, "Hormone of Youth"
— Multiple Effects of Growth Hormone: Body Composition, Energy Level, Skin Level, Well Being, Exercise Tolerance
— Changes in Growth Hormone Level with Age
— Changes in Growth Hormone Level During the Day
— How to Optimize Growth Hormone Levels: Diet - Low Glycemic; Exercise - Cardio & Weight Training; Rest - Melatonin; Oral Secretagogues; Hormone Injections
— Amino Acids: Arginine, Ornithine, Lysine, Glutamine
— Prescription Medications: L-DOPA, Clondine, Dilantin

E. Hormone Injections
— Dosage of Hormone Replacement
— Side Effects of Hormone Replacement

F. Determining Your Need for Hormone Replacement
— Anti-Aging Examination

II. How these subjects relate to Plastic Surgery

A. Nutritional deficiencies cause wound healing problems (scurvy), decreased skin turgor, increased wrinkles, sagging, etc.

B. Hormonal fluctuations through life cause changes in muscle tone, fat deposits, skin thickness, and changes in well-being and self-esteem.

C. Plastic surgery is a means of enhancing self-esteem. All of the above together can be life changing.

III. Definition of a Nutraceutical: Nutritional supplementation that replaces dietary deficiencies, promotes cellular functions and protects from environmental stressors.

IV. Categories of Nutraceuticals

A. Vitamins
— Vitamin A (Retinol)
— Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
— Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
— Vitamin C
— Vitamin E
— Co-Enzyme Q10

B. Minerals
— Calcium
— Iron
— Magnesium
— Selenium
— Zinc

C. Herbs / Botanicals
— Aloe
— Chamomile
— Echinacea
— Garlic
— Ginkgo
— Ginseng
— St. John's Wort

DEFINITIONS:

Chelation Therapy
Chelation therapy is used in patients with heavy metal toxicity. An intravenous (IV) synthetic amino acid (EDTA) is used to isolate (chelate) heavy metals such as iron and lead, removing them from the blood stream and tissues. Many believe chelation therapy, along with a proper nutritional program, aids in the breakdown of the plaques that line the arteries and cause arteriosclerosis. The end result of this type of treatment in some people is increased blood flow and a marked decrease of excessive deposits of plaques in arteries and organs such as the liver, kidneys, heart and brain. Back to top.

Co-Enzyme Q10
Co-Enzyme Q10, or ubiquinone, may improve the functioning of the immune system, increase the bodyÕs resistance to stresses including bacteria and viruses, and improve the condition of cardiac patients. Co-Enzyme Q10's major function in the body is its action as a co-factor in the production of ATP in the mitochondria. Studies have shown that many patients with heart conditions had lower levels of Co-Enzyme Q10 than their healthy counterparts, and that increasing the levels improved patients' condition and mental outlook. Co-Enzyme Q10 may also stimulate the immune system to protect against carcinogens.

Possible Benefits: Co-Enzyme Q10's anti-aging benefits potentially include treatment of cardiac conditions, treatment of high blood pressure, increased weight loss, protection against carcinogens, improved recovery time after surgery, increased functioning of the immune system, enhanced vitality and increased life span. A series of studies by E. G. Bliznakov and others found that elderly mice treated with Co-Enzyme Q10 lived 150% longer than untreated mice.

Side Effects and Contraindications: No serious side effects reported.

Distribution: Co-Enzyme Q10 is available in 10mg, 30mg, 60mg, and 100mg capsules and softgels in drug store chains and health food stores.

Note: Absorption of Co-Enzyme Q10 is promoted by fat, which is why it is available in softgel. As a capsule form, take Co-Enzyme Q10 with lecithin, a fatty acid, or fish oil. Back to top.

Deprenyl
Deprenyl is a drug that has been widely used to treat Parkinson's disease. In Parkinson's disease, dopamine, a major nerve transmitter, decreases due to the action of two enzymes, monoamine oxidases (MAOs). MAO B occurs in the brain; MAO A occurs outside the brain and breaks up some amino acids present in food, thus serving in combination with L-Dopa may be used to treat Parkinson's. Deprenyl may also act against several toxic chemicals produced when MAO B destroys dopamine and may act as an anti-depressant.

Possible Benefits: Deprenyl's anti-aging benefits may include improved memory, slowing the loss of sexual capacity and increased life span. A 1989 study conducted by Dr. J. Knoll showed that rats given Deprenyl beginning in their 24th month lived 30% longer than untreated rats. A 1990 study from the University of Toronto and McMaster University on a different strain of rat showed that treated rats lived 16% longer than controls. A 1991 study conducted by a group from Israel and Italy (Brandeis, Sapir, Kapon, Borelli, Cadel and Valsecchi) tested Deprenyl's effect on memory in aging rats and found that it improved the memories of both aging and young rats.

Side Effects and Contraindications: Side effects can include nausea, stomach ache, drowsiness and depression. High dosages can result in sudden high blood pressure spikes and agitation.

Distribution: Standard dosage for humans is 10mg/day Deprenyl is sold in the U.S. for treatment of Parkinson's disease under the name Eldepryl. Back to top.

Estrogen
Estrogen is the female sex hormone. Before menopause the ovaries produce estrogen. Low levels of estrogen have been linked to osteoporosis, arteriosclerosis, declining cognitive function and increased risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Possible Benefits: Estrogen's anti-aging benefits may include decrease in osteoporosis, decrease in heart attacks and strokes, improved memory and cognitive function, reduced risk and slowing of Alzheimer's, reversal of thinning of skin and drying of mucous membranes and increased life span. A study reported in 1997 in the Journal of the American Medical Association reported that post-menopausal women using estrogen experience as much as a 50% reduction in osteoporosis, heart attack, stroke, reversal of thinning of the skin and mucous membrane, significant reduction and possibly reversals in AlzheimerÕs disease and extended life span.

Side Effects and Contraindications: Conflicting information exists as to whether estrogen replacement therapy increases the risk of breast cancer, but some researchers indicate that combined estrogen-progestin therapy may eliminate this risk. Similarly, some studies indicate an increase in the risk of developing endometrial cancer when using estrogen replacement. Again, it seems that coadministration of progestin may decrease this risk. Back to top.

Ginkgo
Ginkgo, derived from the leaves of the ginkgo tree, stimulates brain activity by increasing levels of dopamine and improves the flow of blood to the brain and all other organs by dilating or relaxing the arteries and veins. Rich in flavonoids, antioxidants that protect the body against free radicals, ginkgo has also been shown to prevent blood clots by inhibiting blood cells from sticking together.

Possible Benefits: Ginkgo has been used in Oriental medicine for thousands of years. European researchers have recognized its properties since the 1970s and today ginkgo is widely prescribed in Europe for maladies ranging from headaches to hemorrhoids. Studies have shown ginkgo may have significant anti-aging benefits: improving mental performance and circulation, as well as inhibiting free radicals, thus preventing heart disease, cancer and arthritis.

Side Effects and Contraindications: There are no known side effects or contraindications.

Distribution: Ginkgo is available without a prescription in natural food stores and most drug stores. The recommended dosage is one 60mg capsule or tablet three times daily, as the effects only last a few hours at a time. Ginkgo may soon be available in prescription form in the United States: Harvard chemists are testing ginkgo as a potential drug for asthma sufferers and to help prevent the rejection of transplanted organs. Back to top.

Ginseng
For 5000 years the Chinese have revered this herb as a cure-all and antidote to the ravages of aging. Ginseng is primarily a stimulant and some researchers speculate that it may indirectly stimulate the productions of stress hormones that can increase stamina. Ginseng also contains choline, a chemical found in the brain that is essential for learning and memory retention. Studies have found that people taking ginseng make fewer mistakes and complete tasks more quickly than those who do not.

Possible Benefits: According to studies performed by Soviet scientist L.L. Brekhman, Ph.D., ginseng helps the body to cope better with stress by acting as an adaptogen, regulating and normalizing blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Researchers at Japan's Kanazawa University found that compounds called unpurified saponins found in ginseng inhibited the growth of cancer cells and even converted diseased cells into normal cells. In addition, ginseng contains antioxidants, known to prevent cellular damage due to free radicals. Other anti-aging benefits of ginseng are that it helps to raise levels of beneficial high-density lipoprotein or "good" cholesterol. In addition, ginseng may help to control some of the side effects of menopause, such as hot flashes.

Distribution: Ginseng, preferable the American or Siberian varieties, is available in natural food and drug stores, and comes in many forms including capsules, tea and powder. Always take ginseng one hour before eating. In capsule form, take one up to three times daily. For tea, drink up to one cup daily. If you use powder, mix 5 to 10mg in liquid daily. Avoid the Chinese panax variety as it may be too strong.

Side Effects and Contraindications: As ginseng has a mildly estrogenic effect on the body, in rare cases it may cause vaginal bleeding in postmenopausal women. People with high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat should not take ginseng. Excessive use may make some people very jittery — be careful not to exceed the recommended dosages. As vitamin C can interfere with the absorption of ginseng, allow two hours before or after taking ginseng to take vitamin C. Back to top.

Human Growth Hormone
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is secreted by the pituitary gland. It causes growth and repair of body tissues including the muscles, the skin, the kidneys and more. HGH levels naturally rise sharply throughout puberty, peak at about age 20, and then slowly decrease. HGH has been used to treat children who fail to make sufficient growth hormone and to treat adults with HGH deficiency.

Possible Benefits: HGH's anti-aging benefits may include increased vitality and energy, changes in fat levels in location, increased muscle mass, thickening of the skin, improved sleep, enhanced bone growth and maintenance and increased life span. A 1990 study conducted by Daniel Rudman, M.D. and colleagues and published by the New England Journal of Medicine reported that HGH reversed aging in human subjects. An experiment conducted by Drs. David Khansari and Thomas Gustad, of North Dakota State initially showed that mice treated with HGH outlived untreated mice, but the study ended before all mice died of natural causes. A two-year trial conducted by Drs. G. Johanson, B. A. Bengtsson and others reported in 1996 that treatment with HGH increased bone growth and maintenance.

Side Effects and Contraindications: Side effects may include bloating, carpal tunnel syndrome, gynecomastia (increase in mammary glands in men), slight decrease in response to insulin, slight increase in blood pressure, hypertension accompanied by headaches and swelling of the optic nerve and decrease in thyroid hormone production.

Distribution: HGH treatments are currently very expensive and available at clinics and through prescription for adult HGH deficiency. Back to top.

Melatonin
Melatonin, a hormone made by the pineal gland, affects many organs including the thymus, the pituitary and the hypothalamus. Melatonin plays a major role in setting the internal clock. Blind people use melatonin to improve their ability to sleep and to regulate their circadian cycle. It is also used to combat jet lag. Studies on mice suggest that melatonin may play an important role in increasing life span.

Possible Benefits: Melatonin's anti-aging benefits may include improved sleep rhythms, improved strength of immune system, more positive response to stress and enhanced well-being. A 1987 study conducted by Walter Pierpaoli, M.D. and George J. M. Maestroni, M.D. found that mice who received melatonin in their drinking water at night lived 20% longer than untreated mice. Studies show that the effects of melatonin depend greatly on the age of the patient and the timing of the dosage in the sleep-wake cycle.

Side Effects and Contraindications: Melatonin causes sleepiness, so it should be taken only at bedtime. At higher doses, however, it may cause increases in depression and psychosis in patients already suffering from them. It should not be taken by children or pregnant females.

Distribution: Melatonin is widely available in drug-store chains in both capsules and in slow-release preparations. Back to top.

Yohimbine
Yohimbine is a pharmaceutical preparation derived from the bark of a tree, called the Corynanthe yohimbine, which has been useful in the treatment of impotence. Yohimbine acts upon the alpha 2 adrenergic nerve cells and blocks their receptiveness to neurotransmitter activity. It is theorized that inhibition of these cells increases the blood flow through the penis, while at the same time, reducing the flow of blood from the penis. Furthermore, yohimbine increases blood levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, one of the body's own prosexual chemicals affecting the hypothalamus. Yohimbine may also increase levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that has an effect on male erection response.

Possible Benefits: The anti-aging benefits of yohimbine are purported to be the improvement of strength, duration and response of male erection, libido enhancement and improved sexual performance. Pharmacology: Synonyms: Aphrodine Hydrochloride; Chlorhydrate de Quebrachin; Corynine Hydrochloride. Chemical Name: Methyl 17 alpha hydroxy yohimban-16alphacarboxylate hydrochloride. Molecular Formula: C(21)H(26)N(2)O(3), HCL Molecular Weight: 390.9

Side Effects and Contraindications: Yohimbine is likely to be more sensitive in the elderly, where it can lead to over stimulation to the point of nervousness and anxiety. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, increased blood pressure, tremors, dizziness and headaches. Patients with inflammatory disease of the urogenital tract, known or suspected prostate or mammary cancer, hypercalciuria, hypercalcemia, nephritic syndrome, ischemic heart disease, untreated congestive heart failure, glaucoma, extrapyramidal disorders and hyperexcitable states should avoid yohimbine.

Distribution: Yohimbine is available in 1mg, 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg tablets under the trade names Aphrodyne, Dayto Himbin, Plain Prowess, Yocon and Yohimes.

Notes: Yohimbine is a pharmaceutical preparation derived from the bark of a tree, called the Corynanthe yohimbine. It should not be confused with Yohimbe, which although is often the ground down bark of this tree, is not a pharmaceutical preparation and likely to contain a minute amount of Yohimbine. Back to top.


VITAMINS

Vitamins are either water-soluble or fat-soluble. The body requires daily supply of water-soluble vitamins. They cannot be stored and are typically excreted within days of ingestion. Fat-soluble vitamins can be stored for longer periods of time in the bodyÕs fatty tissue and liver (hence toxicity becomes an issue with fat-soluble vitamins). The body needs both types of vitamins to function properly. We provide the Optimum Daily Allowance (ODA) for each of the nutrients in this section. Frequently, ODA values are larger than Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) levels. RDA, instituted by the U.S. Food and Nutrition Board, is the bare minimum of nutrients that the body requires to avoid disease. RDA does not address maintenance of optimal health. By using each ODA as a guide, you and your physician can customize a supplementation program that fits your particular health needs. Back to top.

Vitamin A (Retinol) *Fat-soluble
Sources: Found only in animal sources, fish liver oils (as in cod liver oil), liver, milk, cream, cheese, butter and eggs.

Possible Benefits: It is required for all situations that have to do with vision and the eyes, building resistance to respiratory infection and increasing immunity. Vitamin A may also protect against cancer, prevent birth defects and help with skin conditions and acne.

Deficiency Symptoms: Night blindness or loss of adaptation to the dark; dry eye disease; sty in the eye; increased susceptibility to infection; sinus and bronchial infections; drying out of skin and mucous membranes; loss of taste and smell which leads to loss of appetite; loss of vigor; defective teeth and gums; slowed growth.

Optimal Daily Amount: 7,000 to 10,000 I.U. — RDA is 5,000 I.U. Back to top.

Beta-Carotene (Provitamin A) *Fat-soluble
Sources: Found in yellow fruit, dark green, yellow and leafy vegetables, carrots, yams, cantaloupe, yellow squash, spinach, apricots, spirulina, wheat grass, alfalfa, barley grass and over 400 carotenoids isolated from nature.

Possible Benefits: Beta-carotene is an important free-radical fighter for various forms of cancer; protects against ultraviolet damage; enhances immune system. It carries many of the same functions as vitamin A. The liver and the intestinal wall obtain useable vitamin A by converting beta-carotene.

Deficiency Symptoms: Intake of alcohol decreases beta-carotene in the liver; those with hypothyroidism and diabetes may have trouble converting beta-carotene into vitamin A.

Optimal Daily Amount: 20,000 to 50,000 I.U. — No RDA has been established. Non-toxic. Back to top.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) *Water-soluble
Sources: Found in yellow fruit, green and leafy vegetables, carrots, yams, cantaloupe, organ meats (especially liver), pork, dried beans, peas, soybeans, wheat germ, brewer's or nutritional yeast, egg yolks, poultry, fish and seafood, dried yeast, brown rice, rice husks or rice bran, whole grain products, oatmeal, nuts, most vegetables, milk, raisins and prunes.

Possible Benefits: Known as the "morale" vitamin, it converts carbohydrates (sugar) into energy, promotes growth, aids digestion and is essential for nerve tissues, muscle and heart. Vitamin B1 helps repel insects and mosquitoes and is also used in the treatment of alcoholics and drug addicts.

Deficiency Symptoms: Loss of appetite; fatigue; weakness; neuritis; muscle atrophy; head pressures; poor sleep; feeling tense and irritable; aches and pains; subjectively poor memory, difficulty concentrating; constipation; impaired growth; "pins and needles" sensation in the toes and "burning" sensation in the feet; beriberi, which includes mental illness, paralysis of some eye muscles, foot drop and decreased sensation in the feet and legs. Alcohol consumption interferes with absorption of B1.

Optimal Daily Amount: 25 to 100mg — RDA is 1.4mg; additional 0.4mg for pregnant or lactating women. Back to top.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) *Water-soluble
Sources: Found in milk, cheese and yogurt (rich sources), along with liver, kidney, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, bran, wheat germ, lentils, beans, peanuts, soy beans, green leafy vegetables and fruit.

Possible Benefits: B2 helps to convert protein, carbohydrates and fat into energy. It protects against free-radical damage; it is necessary for cellular respiration and good vision, skin, hair and nails. Physical exercise increases the body's need for B2.

Deficiency Symptoms: Cheilosis or cracks and sores in the corners of the mouth; frayed or scaling lips; inflamed tongue with purplish or magenta color; eczema or seborrhea; flaking skin around the nose, eyebrows, chin, cheeks, earlobes or hairline; oily appearance of the nose, chin and forehead with fatty deposits accumulating under the skin; bloodshot, watering, itching, burning, fatigued eyes with keen sensitivity to light; increase in cataract formation; nervous symptoms such as "pins and needles" sensation, difficulty walking, muscular weakness, trembling and a lack of stamina or vigor; behavioral changes such as depression, moodiness, nervousness and irritability.

Optimal Daily Amount: 25 to 100mg — RDA is 1.6mg Back to top.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin, Niacinamide, Nicotinic Acid, Nicotinamide) *Water-soluble
Sources: Found in lean meats, organ meats, fish, brewer's yeast, whole grains, nuts, dried peas and beans, white meat of turkey or chicken, milk and milk products.

Possible Benefits: Known to assist enzymes to break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy. Helps to lower cholesterol levels, lowers triglycerides and other cardiovascular disorders. Assists the nervous system, maintains healthy skin, tongue and digestive tissues. B3 plays a role in the production of bile salts and for synthesis of sex hormones. It prevents or cures schizophrenia and some other mental disorders. It alleviates arthritis.

Deficiency Symptoms: Pellagra (symptoms include dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia); bright red tongue, sore tongue and gums, inflamed mouth, throat and esophagus, canker sores, mental illness, perceptual changes in the five senses, schizophrenic symptoms, rheumatoid arthritis, muscle weakness, general fatigue, irritability, recurring headaches, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, bad breath, insomnia, small ulcers.

Optimal Daily Amount: 50 to 100mg of niacinamide included in daily B complex supplement. To lower cholesterol, researchers say us the niacin form, 250 to 1,500mg spread throughout the day. — RDA is 20mg. Back to top.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid, Calcium Pantothenate, Panthenol) *Water-soluble
Sources: Found in brewer's yeast, liver, kidney, wheat bran, crude molasses, whole grains, egg yolk, peanuts, peas, sunflower seeds, beef, chicken, turkey, milk and royal jelly.

Possible Benefits: B5 is vital for the adrenal glands and for production of cortisone. It plays a role in creating energy from protein, carbohydrates and fats helping to synthesize cholesterol, steroids and fatty acids. Used for a healthy digestive tract and essential to production of antibodies, will help with arthritis and is an anti-inflammatory.

Deficiency Symptoms: A burning sensation in the feet; enlarged, beefy, furrowed tongue; skin disorders such as eczema; duodenal ulcers, inflammation of the intestines and stomach; decreased antibody formation; upper respiratory infections; vomiting; restlessness; muscle cramps; constipation; sensitivity to insulin; adrenal exhaustion; physical and mental depression; overwhelming fatigue; reduced production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach; allergies; arthritis; nerve degeneration; spinal curvature; disturbed pulse rate; gout; graying hair.

Optimal Daily Amount: 100 to 200mg in a B-complex supplement or up to 500mg in divided doses. — RDA is 10mg. Back to top.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine, Pyridoxinal, Pyridoxamine) *Water-soluble
Sources: Found in brewer's yeast, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, liver and other organ meats, blackstrap molasses, bananas, walnuts, roasted peanuts, canned tuna and salmon.

Possible Benefits: B6 metabolizes proteins, fats and carbohydrates; it forms hormones for adrenaline and insulin and makes antibodies and red blood cells. It is used for synthesis of RNA and DNA; regulates fluids in the body and is needed for production of hydrochloric acid. Can relieve carpal tunnel syndrome and PMS symptoms, helps asthmatics, and when used with magnesium, helps prevent kidney stones.

Deficiency Symptoms: Greasy, scaly dermatitis between the eyebrows and on the body parts that rub together; low blood sugar; numbness and tingling in the hands and feet; neuritis; arthritis; trembling hands in the aged; water retention and swelling during pregnancy; nausea; motion sickness; mental retardation; epilepsy; kidney stones; anemia; excessive fatigue; nervous breakdown; mental illness; acne; convulsions; babies and newborn infant may develop crusty yellow scabs on the scalp called "cradle cap."

Optimal Daily Amount: 50 to 100mg combined with B-complex supplement. — RDA is 2mg. Back to top.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin or Cyanocobalamin) *Water-soluble
Sources: Found in organ meats, liver, beef, pork, eggs, whole milk, cheese, whole wheat bread and fish.

Possible Benefits: Helpful with metabolism of nerve tissue and protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Creates red blood cells and may stimulate appetite in children. An "intrinsic factor" must exist in the stomach for this vitamin to be absorbed.

Deficiency Symptoms: Pernicious anemia including weakness, a sore and inflamed tongue that appears smooth and shiny, numbness, drowsiness, irritability, depression, mental deterioration, senile dementia, paranoid psychosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, diarrhea, poor appetite, growth failure in children.

Optimal Daily Amount: 500 to 1,000mcg (micrograms) with a complete B-complex vitamin. Sublingual form is best absorbed with tablets placed under the tongue. — RDA is 6mcg. Back to top.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) *Water-soluble
Sources: Found in rose hips, citrus fruit and juices, strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupes, raw vegetables such as red bell peppers.

Possible Benefits: Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant to protect against cellular damage. The formation and maintenance of collagen (the skin's "cement"), Vitamin C helps with wound healing and burns, especially for those recovering from surgery. It increases the absorption of iron and calcium. For a properly functioning nervous system C is useful. It increases resistance to infections and raises HDL (good) cholesterol. A protector from cardiovascular disease, it also prevents buildup of atherosclerotic plaque on the blood vessel wall. It may help with cold and flu symptoms and infertility. Vitamin C also protects against industrial pollutants and cataracts and other eye disorders. It prevents bleeding gums and many types of viral and bacterial infections. It may protect from many forms of cancer.

Deficiency Symptoms: Bruising easily, bleeding gums, tooth decay, nose bleeds, swollen or painful joints, anemia, poor wound healing, lowered resistance to infection, general weakening of connective tissue, scurvy, easily fractured bones, weakened arteries which rupture or hemorrhage, extreme muscle weakness, painful joints, wounds and sores that will not heal.

Optimal Daily Amount: 1,000 to 6,000mg depending on your need. — RDA is 60mg. Back to top.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol) *Fat-soluble
Sources: Found in wheat germ oil, soybean oil, safflower oil, peanuts, whole grains (wheat, rice, oats), green, leafy vegetables, cabbage, spinach, asparagus, broccoli, eggs.

Possible Benefits: Vitamin E is also important for oxygenation of the cells, preventing the oxidation of cells. It may be useful in gangrene, coronary and cerebral thrombosis (clots), diabetes mellitus, congenial heart disease, arteriosclerosis, phlebitis, and other leg problems due to poor circulation. Also helps with varicose veins. It is a powerful antioxidant, protecting against air pollution, damage against radiation and protects polyunsaturated oils from breaking down. possibly prevents stoke and melts fresh blood clots, frees blood platelets from normal clotting of wounds. It may normalize the activity of ovaries in women, hence improving periods and preventing excessive bleeding and vaginal dryness. Good for strengthening the immune system and if applied externally it eliminates radiation burns and reduces scarring. It can alleviate pain in osteoarthritis and may help relieve menopausal symptoms. Finally, it may increase stamina in athletes and improves action of insulin.

Deficiency Symptoms: May decrease survival time of red blood cells, faulty fat absorption, anemia in premature infants, degeneration of the brain and spinal cord, premature births and higher risk of miscarriage, decrease in sex hormones and a higher risk of skin cancer.

Optimal Daily Amount: 400 to 1,200 I.U. To obtain these potencies, one should use natural vitamin E supplements, as d-alpha tocopherol of the dry form, d-alpha tocopherol succinate. — RDA is 30 I.U. Back to top.


HERBS & BOTANICALS

Aloe
Possible Benefits: The gel of the aloe leaf contains several chemicals, a polysaccharide, enzymes, nutrients and other compounds that seem to fight bacteria and fungi, reduce inflammation and encourage wound healing. Chemicals called glycosides in the latex cause the laxative effect. Two isolated compounds in the gel recently have been shown to stimulate the immune system and improve skin healing time.

How To Use It: Manufacturers sell the transparent gel from the plant's leaf as a topical remedy; they also process it into "juice" and pills, which are taken internally for gastrointestinal benefits or as a tonic (a substance that works to balance the body's systems instead of addressing a specific ailment). For topical use, aloe gels work well on sunburn, rashes and other minor irritations (look for products containing 95 to 100% pure aloe); it is also available as aloe-based ointments and sprays for other skin traumas. Aloe for internal use comes in liquids, tablets and capsules. Check product labels for dosage recommendations.

Side Effects and Contraindications: Gel preparations used topically have not been associated with side effects. Aloe juice products for oral consumption are generally considered safe, although drinking more than a pint a day may lead to diarrhea. Products made from the plant's latex can cause side effects such as intestinal cramping, which is common to stimulant laxatives. Because they can be harsh, one should avoid aloe-derived laxatives during pregnancy. Back to top.

Chamomile
Possible Benefits: Chamomile can promote relaxation and it is also a reliable remedy for skin irritation. It improves tissue regeneration, reduces inflammation and stimulates the immune-boosting activity of white blood cells, thanks to the action of chemical flavonoids. Both varieties are effective as mild sedatives, although German chamomile appears to have more anti-inflammatory action. The compounds responsible for chamomile's sleep-promoting properties are still being determined, although a recent study done on apigenin, a flavonoid derived from German chamomile, found clear anti-anxiety and mild sedative effects.

How To Use It: Chamomile comes as a dried whole herb (to be used as a tea or bath infusion) and in packaged teas, tables, capsules, concentrated drops, tinctures and extracts. Follow dosage directions on labels.

Side Effects and Contraindications: Both oral and topical chamomile products are considered very nontoxic, gentle enough for use in children, or during pregnancy and lactation. An extremely remote concern is that people with an allergy to some other herb in the daisy family would be allergic to chamomile. Chamomile-based skin creams should not come in contact with eyes. Back to top.

Echinacea
Possible Benefits: Echinacea has been shown to boost the immune system, short-circuit colds and flu, fight bacterial and viral infections, lower fever and calm allergic reactions when taken internally. Researchers have determined that echinacea increases levels of the antiviral substance interferon as well as an immune-related blood protein known as properdin. Echinacea also prompts the thymus, bone marrow and spleen to develop more of their various immune cells. Studies have identified immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory chemicals called polysaccharides (including one called insulin). The compounds are found in both the root and the above-ground parts of the echinacea plant. In addition, a recent study found that echinacea contains a number of antioxidant compounds, which suggests that echinacea extracts would protect the skin from sunlight-induced free-radical damage. Thus, herbal companies may soon be adding echinacea to a whole new set of products: skin creams, moisturizers and sun block.

Side Effects and Contraindications: Echinacea is one of the least toxic herbs around; it is not known to cause any side effects. Allergic reactions are rare, but one should take only a small dose at first if one is allergic to any other plants in the compositae family (which includes sunflowers, daisies and dandelions).

Note: Echinacea should only be taken on an as-needed basis. Efficacy may decline if used for an extended period of time, so holidays (where you do not take in daily) are recommended. Back to top.

Garlic
Possible Benefits: This herb figures in a seemingly endless array of remedies for everything from insect bites and fever to intestinal ailments. Researchers have documented garlic's potential to reduce heart attacks by lowering the levels of blood fats, including triglycerides and LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Numerous studies also indicate that garlic can boost immunity, balance blood sugar and prevent digestive ailments (it may also help the liver to neutralize toxins). Garlic contains amino acids, various vitamins and trace minerals, flavonoids, enzymes, and at least 200 additional compounds. Among the most active medicinal compounds are dozens of sulfur compounds found in few other plants; these are thought to be responsible for garlic's documented antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant and other healthful properties. In one recent study Russian researchers determined that garlic's beneficial effects on cardiovascular health could be attributed to both direct actions on the walls of heart arteries and to indirect preventative actions at the cellular level. In other words, garlic is a double-barreled weapon against heart disease.

How To Use It: Garlic is available fresh or juiced, as well as in tablets, capsules and tinctures. Odor-controlled powders, concentrates and capsules are popular forms, as are enteric-coated tablets (which have a coating that prevents the destruction of active compounds by stomach acids). Supplement manufacturers are increasingly standardizing their products for desirable garlic compounds (principally one called allicin, but also total sulfur, allin, and S-allyl cysteine), but debate rages on as to which of these compounds are most important and which formulations are most effective. The potency of garlic products may be described. Back to top.