Routes2Happiness

Research Page: 

The Dangers of Dairy.

Please refer to the following website to get the full picture.  Following is only a précis of the info from tis and other sites.

http://www.rense.com/general26/milk.htm

Yes….. Milk is Mother Nature’s “Perfect Food” …. For calves …..until they are weaned. Everything you know about cow’s milk and dairy is probably part of a Dairy industry MYTH.

Cow’s milk is and unhealthy fluid from diseased animals that contains a wide range of dangerous and disease-causing substances that have a cumulative negative effect on all who consume it.

All Cow’s milk (regular and ‘organic’) has 59 hormones, scores of allergens, fat and cholesterol.

Most cow’s milk has measurable quantities of herbicides, pesticides, dioxins (up to 200 times the safe levels), up to 52 powerful antibiotics, blood, pus, feces, bacteria and viruses.

One of the hormones in cow’s milk, is called Insulin-Growth factor ONE, and is a key factor in the rapid growth and proliferation of breast, prostate and colon cancers (probably ALL cancers)

Each bite of hard cheese has 10 times the ingredients of milk, ice cream 12 times, butter 21 times.

Most of the Calcium content of milk is useless to the human body as there are insufficient magnesium content to absorb the milk. (11% of the calcium can be absorbed) The nations with the highest amount of dairy consumption have the highest rates of osteoporosis.

Milk can be thought of as ‘liquid meat’ because of its high protein content, and protein actually leaches magnesium from the bones.

87% of milk is water, the rest is protein, and 80% of the protein in milk is casein. A binder, a polymer used to make plactics and the glue that holds beer bottle labels in place.

Pasteurization doubles the bacterial count. And by the way, cow’s milk is allowed to have feces in!

40% of milk is dead white cells commonly known as pus!

3 glasses of milk has the same cholesterol as 53 slices of bacon!

Cows are fed vit d-3, derived from pig brain or pig skin!

89% of America’s dairy herds have the leukemia virus.

One of the proteins in milk, lactalbumin has been identified as the key factor in diabetes…..

Please goto the website above, there is much more. How does cow’s milk impact humans who consume it: Obesity, Heart disease, cancer, allergies, digestive problems, diabetes, asthma, behavioral problems…..

In closing, just for good measure, the gland that secretes lactase, which breaks down milk sugar, lactose, dries up at about 5 years old. The list is never ending.

Do you have cow’s milk, and feed it to your children? Really?

One Month Detox Protocol

Wellness Clinic @ Wellness Health Shop (next to Nina's at the SPAR center)

Dr Francois Connoway (0813549691) 042 296 0568

Are you feeling: Tired and run down; Listless and weak; Ten years older than you actually are; Filled with aches and pains; Just not yourself; Or, if you’re lucky, just simply not 100%?

What you need is: No! NOT your doctor, You simply need a detox!

What then is a Detox?

We have all heard the words detox, detox, detox.

There are so many detoxification programs available...., which would be the right one, or the best one? Some people detox by eating fruits or drinking fruit

juices, which would certainly detox you.  

There are many programs available in Health shops and chemists, which choice remains with you. All of the above are legitimate ways of cleansing and therefore preparing your body for the next step in the healing process.

It may even be that your body needs only the detoxification process and will do the healing by itself. 

I am a registered herbalist, iridologist and have detoxed people for fifteen years with two programs I developed, consisting of capsules to be swallowed three times a day. No diet is needed, as long as you eat the minimum of protein and the maximum of fruit and vegetables during the detox.  A detox is the first step in the healing process and probably the most important. In fact, I suggest that before you even see your natural practitioner, or doctor, you should always first have a proper detox. It will save you and your practitioner a lot of time and you some money if you detox first. 

The reason why I like iridology is that it shows problems in the organs and organ systems way before it becomes chronic and therefore allows early treatment and therefore prevention of serious problems.

The detox program should be undertaken whenever you are feeling under par or at least twice a year.

The suggested steps of my detox  are as follows:

One Month Detox Protocol

This simple detox protocol is a fantastic way to start your journey to health and longevity.  The process begins by removing all the excess poison and plaque in your body.  It is more effective if you can spend the first day at home.  Skip day 1, though, if it is not possible to have a day at home.  It just makes the process a little gentler but is not imperative unless you feel really un-well.

Day 1

·         Squeeze 650ml fresh lemon juice.

·         Start hour 1 by taking 250ml lemon juice in a cup of boiling water.

·         Follow this up with hourly doses of 60ml of lemon juice in a cup of boiling water hourly until juice is finished.

·         Before bed time, have your first cleansing bath. (*1)

Day 2 to 6

·         On rising. 60ml of lemon freshly squeezed lemon juice in a cup of boiling water.

·         30 minutes later have one capsule of the Anti-Microbial Caps

·         4 hours later one capsule again and 4 hours later the last one for the day.

·         Food should be taken as per my included eating plan. Remember 5 small meals (or more) is the best way of eating.

·         Have the weekly “detox” bath before going to bed on day 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, After the detox, repeat this bath once a month.

Day 7 to 16

·         Continue As day 2 to 7 plus add one each of the kidney, liver, lymph and immune caps each time you take the anti microbial capsules.  (Very important!  If you do not have a regular daily “unassisted”  bowel movement in the morning, take two of the colon caps at bed time)

Day 17 to 31

·         Continue As day 2 to 7 plus add one each of the kidney, liver, lymph and immune caps twice per day.  (Anti microbial caps still taken 3 times).

·         At this stage you should be feeling on top of the world and an appointment with your health specialist is now a very good idea.

·         The eating plan should be a way of life, but is not imperative to follow the plan slavishly.

·         Tips during the detox and good to include in your life style:

·         Have at least a liter of clean water during the day.  Drink fennel or ginger tea as often as you want to. Please never use sugar as it lowers your immunity by 50%.  There are plenty of good sugar substitutes in your local health store.  My personal favorite is a non nutritive sweetener called product called Advantage as it is very reasonably priced and definitely 20 times sweeter than sugar. You can also use this for cooking and baking. And remember to cut out wheat and dairy products (especially milk and cheese) as much as you can, IF YOU USE IT AT ALL.

Detoxification Baths

Make a mixture of 500g Bicarbonate of Soda, 500g Epsom salt and 500g sea salt. Add ½ cup of The Mix (*) Soak for 15-20 minutes and then scrub the skin gently with soap on a natural fiber. Within a few minutes the water will turn murky and "dirty." The darkness to the water is heavy metals murky and "dirty." The darkness to the water is heavy metals coming out of the skin (aluminum and mercury). Do this once a week during detox and once a month for maintenance.

Pricing:

Anti Microbial:  30 days                    R150

First ½ of detox 10 days                   R200

Second ½ detox 15 days                   R200

Colon regulator/Cleanser                 R100   (Only if have you don’t a daily bowel movement)

In Between Meals

Drink herbals teas which support the liver, including Dandelion/licorice/ginger/fennel

Note: Following a good diet is mandatory for herbs to work optimally.

Healing Crisis.

The Healing Crisis occurs when the body is detoxifying too rapidly and toxins are being released faster than the body can eliminate them. When this occurs, one will suffer from headaches, nausea, vomiting, and malaise. Even though this is but a short period of the health program, it can be severe and deter one from reaching their intended goals. Also, the person may not know what they are experiencing and think that they are regressing.

* To minimize the Healing Crisis:
* Drinks lots of pure water
* Get minimal exercise daily
* Lots of sunshine

* Take detoxification slowly... one step at a time
* Don't increase the dose of herbals
* Keep the organs of elimination (bowels, lungs, skin, kidneys) open.

* Take detox baths
* Use aromatherapy oils for aches -like peppermint, birch, and wintergreen
* Sweat by using exercise, saunas, baths, and herbs
* Avoid foreign chemicals and refined processed foods

Happy Detox!

General Info on Detoxing

Herbal Detox will help you flush the kidneys and sooth the  bladder and intestines, assisting the process of dieting and slimming in weight loss, detoxifying and cleansing the body - for proper elimination of toxins helps while slimming, dieting, and detoxifying the body. You sometimes get a feeling that your body is just not functioning at it highest level, and that you seem to be keeping back toxins in your system. This can manifest in a variety of ways - from cellulite developing, excess weight, slight headaches, and a "lack-luster" feeling - nothing is really wrong, but things are also not perfect.

Toxins

A well functioning body needs to be free of toxins and therefore, detoxifying the body is of prime importance.

Detoxifying your body will also help to pep up your metabolism as your body can't function well with a clogged up system - as much as a car can't run with a clogged up engine. We create toxins by over-eating,  drinking and in general over-indulging. Help detoxify your body with our herbal health supplements to achieve a well functioning body - free of toxins and toxic build-up.

Weight loss.

Detoxifying the body is not just good when slimming, dieting or losing weight, but is required for optimum health and vitality. To boost your vitality and metabolism, try this herbal health supplement.

With weight loss / slimming, it is not good enough to only eat less, you need to get your body in top functioning condition. Our herbal health supplements will assist in many of the different areas to correct, when wanting to lose weight, slimming or detoxifying the body.

All people, but especially people on a diet or slimming program, should attend to detoxifying the body, as you also need to get rid of toxins while slimming. A feeling of no energy and fatigue is experienced while slimming and dieting, which will also be helped by our herbal health supplements.

Generic diets for detoxification are good, but may not stimulate the liver, lungs or the kidneys as much as one would like. Therefore, herbal cleanses are indicated when we want to hone our cleanse to a "sharp edge" and be organ specific. Of course, herbs are foods too and provide one with vitamins, minerals and enzymes for excellent nutrition. Herbs are powerful, because they may be combined together to fortify those herbs that aid specific organs. For example, herbal combinations that aid the liver may be found in many organic food stores. 

Conclusion

Detoxification is essential for good health to exist. Our body must eliminate toxins daily or we would die immediately. Since our environment is more toxic today, our livers are over stressed with environmental toxins to deal with daily.

Processing other toxins, when the liver is stressed, may be delayed. Detoxification is also a lifestyle change. For it is by the way we live that determines our health and how our liver processes toxins.

But for those who want their cake and eat it too, detoxification may be compromised. A change your lifestyle may be needed and detoxification will be forthcoming. Nature has afforded us the chance to live in a toxic environment and not be affected by it. Of course, we have to live right to get that chance. Without detoxification we may not get a second chance.
Good health is within our reach, but first we must cleanse this "temple" and eat a wholesome natural diet that provides us with maximal nutrients and fiber. Herbs can help us stimulate the liver, lungs, kidneys and bowels when needed, but diet is the first priority in any detoxification program. Don't become overly dependent on herbal laxatives. When toxins are released one may feel bad for a day or two, but when our good health is restored we will have renewed energy and will "soar on the wings of an eagle". Many people living today have never known what good health "feels" like. They survive with an abundance of toxins and an existence less than healthy.

Good health is not hard to find, but does require diligence and life style changes which are compatible with toxin elimination. Sir Jason Winters Says, "Death begins in the colon." With good toxin elimination through natural detoxification programs our health and energy are restored.

Magnesium Peroxide

Magnesium Peroxide is, in fact, Food Grade Hydrogen Peroxide (35%), combined with the mineral of Magnesium to produce Magnesium Peroxide; a powerful, yet, as importantly; stable form of Oxygen delivery to the cells. In capsule form, Magnesium Peroxide provides a more sustained release function. All the same benefits as Hydrogen Peroxide, yet known to be more powerful and gentler on the system – in particular for those patients who may have a sensitive constitution.

Magnesium peroxide (MgO2) is 43% powdered magnesium (Mg) and 57% pure ‘solid phase oxygen’ (O2). Magnesium is an ideal carrier for the oxygen, since it is an antacid and alkalizes the gut fluid, enabling the oxygen to dissolve. Magnesium peroxide progressively liberates the oxygen upon contact with the acids in water and also imparts a beneficial high alkaline reaction to water to which it is added. Oxygenated magnesium has additional advantages over other forms - such as significantly greater mineral ionisation. Normally Gaia Research would not recommend elemental minerals, preferring food sources, but in this case there is considerable scientific evidence that it is uniquely well utilised as a water additive, especially since it is ionised.

Directions: We recommend a pinch of powder in every glass of water or up to a heaped teaspoon early morning in a glass of water/dilute fruit juice on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes, if not longer, before breakfast, continued daily until the bowel completely empties, after which halve the dose daily until 1/8th of a teaspoon is reached. Magnesium peroxide is also useful for coating seeds for gardening and adding to sprouting seeds to improve germination and alkalise, oxygenate and sterilise the young roots as it slowly liberates hydrogen peroxide and oxygen.

Magnesium is an essential mineral in vertebrates and is the fourth abundant cation in the body, within the cell second only to potassium. A large number of enzymes require Mg for activation and it is involved with several physiological and biochemical processes including synthesis of RNA, DNA or protein and stabilization of membranes. At the present moment, pathologies as common as diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia are associated with an altered metabolism of magnesium, and this divalent cation is even being considered as a potential tool in the prevention or co-adjuvant treatment of ventricular arrhythmias, coronary heart disease and cirrhosis of the liver, among others. Magnesium is a microelement that is essential for biological functions and particularly for cellular metabolism. It has a central role in protein, lipid, carbohydrate, and nucleic acid synthesis, and it is important for muscular physiology and nerve excitability. Magnesium has an important role in the stability of biological membranes, it controls immune phenomena, and it activates over 300 enzymes and exhibits antimutagenic effects against genotoxicity.

Habitually low intakes of magnesium and resulting abnormal magnesium metabolism are associated with etiologic factors in various metabolic diseases, in particular: cardiovascular; blood pressure; skeletal growth & osteoporosis; and diabetes mellitus Magnesium is essential for potassium transport. Evidence suggests that a deficit of magnesium is closely interrelated to potassium deficiency and refractory potassium repletion. Numerous experiments and clinical observations have credited magnesium with a positive influence on the incidence of migraine attacks Reduced erythrocyte magnesium (Mg) levels have been reported in the chronic pain syndromes: fibromyalgia syndrome (FS), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) eosinophilia myalgia syndrome (EMS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Magnesium deficiency seems to be implicated in immune dysfunction, including acute and chronic infections in AIDS, under which conditions researchers have consistently found lower concentrations of plasma and erythrocyte magnesium and also significant univariate associations between CD4(+) T-lymphocyte count and hematocrit and plasma magnesium concentrations.

Magnesium deficiency is linked to heart disease. Hypertension and atherosclerosis are well-known precursors of ischemic heart disease, stroke and sudden cardiac death. It is now clear that a low dietary intake of Mg can be a strong risk factor for hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, ischemic heart disease, atherogenesis and sudden cardiac death. Deficits in serum Mg appear often to be associated with arrhythmias, coronary vasospasm and high blood pressure It is becoming clear that Mg exerts multiple cellular and molecular effects on cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cells, which explains its protective actions

Water-borne magnesium is absorbed 30% better and much faster than dietary Magnesium. Magnesium has all the required properties to protect the heart. It ensures the normal quiet heart rhythm. If this is unduly accelerated by toxic factors or other stress, Mg may reverse the effect. The abnormal human heart condition may occur well above the deficiency range. Magnesium prevents so-called "calcium overload", usually treated with pharmaceutical preparations ("calcium blockers") but Mg would probably do as well, or even better

The spent magnesium peroxide is converted to magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2). The safety of this material is easily conveyed by the fact that a suspension of magnesium hydroxide in water is ordinary Milk of Magnesia, which explains its gentle, yet reliable laxative effect, the latter at doses approaching ½ - 1 tsp in a glass of water. Magnesium peroxide is used as an anti-septic, chiefly in dentifrices, including toothpowders. Pharmacopoeia indicate deodorant, antiseptic, anti-infective, antacid, and laxative effects for magnesium peroxide.

MMS ( methylsulfonylmethane)

MSM, methylsulfonylmethane (METH-əl-sul-FON-il-METH-ane) provides sulfur, a vital building block of joints, cartilage, skin, hair and nails, and methyl groups, which support many vital biochemical processes in the body, including energy production. MSM is a naturally-occurring nutrient found in small amounts of many foods. As a dietary supplement, MSM is synthesized. When made correctly, it is identical to that found in nature. MSM can be taken alone or in combination with other joint health supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin.

Published, peer-reviewed clinical research in the U.S. has shown MSM is safe and effective in increasing joint comfort and supporting a normal range of motion.

Q: How much MSM can I take? Are there any side effects?
A: Clinical trials have investigated doses ranging from 1,500 mg per day up to 6,000 mg per day. Stanley Jacob, MD reports using MSM in his patients at doses of up to 100 grams per day with no ill effects under highly controlled medical treatment regimens in a hospital clinic (MSM: The Definitive Guide). MSM toxicity studies indicate that these large doses do not present safety issues, however it is possible that they could result in occasional loose stools or other minor effects.

Q: Is MSM effective for allergies?
A: A preliminary 2002 clinical study found that MSM consumption at 2600 mg per day for 30 days reduced allergy-associated symptoms in people clinically diagnosed with allergies.

MSM and the immune system

Some critical trials suggest that MSM might also be a useful therapy for HIV/AIDS and other auto-immune allergies. Research shows that the immune system is hyperactive in HIV+ patients, as well as other auto-immune diseases such as lupus. MSM at 1000-4000mg a day has been shown to slow down the immune system, easing many of the common symptoms for these patients.

MSM has also been shown to help those who suffer from seasonal allergies, primarily nasal congestion. Many patients report that MSM supplementation completely eradicates symptoms of congestion, sneezing, and other typical allergy symptoms.

MSM has no known toxicity levels, as it is a natural product and a basic element necessary for life. So if you’re suffering from auto-immune conditions, you might want to try using MSM in addition to any other doctor-prescribed therapies.

What Causes Joint Pain?

Osteoarthritis (OA) and physical strain can lead to joint pain and swelling. MSM has been shown to relieve pain associated with OA. It has also shown anti-inflammatory effects in animal research.

Osteoarthritis is a nearly universal consequence of aging among vertebrates. Over 40 million Americans have some form of degenerative joint disease, including 80% of people over 50 years old. By the seventh decade, OA is nearly universal, producing the highest rate of morbidity of any disease.

Joints affected by OA suffer from uneven loading, which leads to altered lines of weight bearing. Cartilage (made by cells called chondrocytes) begins to build up to compensate for the uneven load, which forms roughening and deformities in the joint surface. The joints inflame and no longer operate smoothly, but instead the ball and socket rub unevenly from the friction of the outgrowths of cartilage and bone, called osteophytes. These changes cause irritation, triggering more cartilage growth and inflammation--  and the cycle of degeneration is set into motion. Science has been unsuccessful in finding a cure for OA, so instead, treatment focuses on easing the symptoms.

Sports injuries, tennis elbow, and tendinitis involve inflammation and micro-trauma to the soft tissues around the joints.

The inflammation caused by these injuries can easily become chronic due to overuse or improper after-care, resulting in symptoms not unlike arthritis: soreness, stiffness, and general pain in the region.

The Role of Sulfur in Joint Pain

MSM is thought to deliver sulfur to the body in a useable way. Sulfur helps maintain the structure of connective tissue by forming cross-linkages through disulfide bonds, i.e., sulfur strengthens the tissues that make up the joint.
Sulfur is critical to good joint health. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are the fundamental building blocks of joint cartilage, and GAG molecules are linked together in chains by disulfide bonds. As the name implies, these bonds are between two sulfur atoms. The disulfide bridges reduce conformational flexibility of GAG chains, making cartilage firm and resilient. Cartilage integrity is thus a sulfur-dependent state.

MSM contains a lot of sulfur – 34% by weight. While more research is needed to determine how the body absorbs the sulfur it needs from MSM, preliminary studies in mice and in horses suggest that the sulfur in MSM is incorporated into proteins and into joint tissues.

MSM—Optimal Support for Athletic Performance
and Recovery from Sports Injuries

MSM is a naturally occurring nutrient that provides the body with essential sulfur and methyl groups that are used in healing and repair processes. MSM is prized by professional and amateur athletes for effective nutritional support of athletic performance and recovery from soft tissue and joint injuries. MSM can safely be taken over the long term with no documented toxicity. As a result, athletes can achieve improved performance, pain relief, and enhanced tissue repair without fear of side effects.

Sulfur: The Key to Healthy Connective Tissue

Sports activities can build strength, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness. But they also increase the risk of minor injuries, and can cause wear-and-tear on joints, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues. Athletes strive to improve their performance, but they also need to protect their bodies against injuries small and large. MSM can help.

Methyl Groups: Stoking the Fires of Metabolism

Many metabolic processes in the body—from the generation of energy to the synthesis of hormones—depend upon methyl groups. Methyl groups contain one carbon and three hydrogen atoms (CH₃).  They are shuttled between various bio-molecules as a kind of regulatory currency. Nutrients that donate methyl groups (e.g., folic acid, vitamin B12, trimethylglycine, S-adenosylmethionine, MSM) can have wide ranging effects on health and longevity.

MSM for Sport Injuries

Every year, thousands of athletes suffer debilitating injuries or joint degeneration. Most sports injuries involve pain, redness, heat, and swelling: the four cardinal signs of inflammation. MSM supplementation can assist the healing process without the side effects typically associated with other products.

Treating an acute injury may be as simple as RICE. This acronym refers to rest, ice, compression, and elevation. For acute injuries, supplementation with MSM may also speed relief from inflammation and promote lasting healing.

After soft-tissue injuries, including the microtears in muscle that occur after typical strength training, connective tissue normally repairs itself. Sulfur is one of the key requirements for connective tissue integrity and repair. MSM provides a rich source of bioavailable sulfur to support connective tissue repair and regeneration.

MSM Treatment for Osteoarthritis Joint Pain Relief

The largest and most thorough clinical trial of MSM to date found that the nutrient improved pain and physical function in people with knee osteoarthritis when compared to placebo. The article, "A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) treatment for knee osteoarthritis pain," was published in print in the journal Osteoarthritis and Cartilage in March, 2006.

"Knee osteoarthritis affects millions of Americans' daily lives, and safe, effective options for relieving pain and restoring mobility are limited," according to Jeremy Appleton, ND, CNS, co-author of the MSM–The Definitive Guide. "The study results provide long-sought validation that MSM is a safe and effective [treatment] option for people who want to improve their joint health." says Appleton. "There is also an exciting secondary outcome concerning homocysteine levels," says Appleton. "In this study, MSM significantly lowered  homocysteine levels.  High homocysteine levels are considered by many to be a health risk. By lowering homocysteine, MSM could potentially reduce those risks, which is highly desirable in a joint supplement."

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial studied the efficacy and safety of MSM in patients over age 40 diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis. Participants were randomized to take three grams twice daily of OptiMSM or placebo for 12 weeks.

Primary endpoints were the composite subscales in the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) on pain, stiffness, physical function, and total symptoms. Secondary endpoints included several laboratory tests for safety, serum homocysteine, and urine malondialdehyde (a marker of oxidative stress).

Clinical Trial Results: MSM Treatment for Osteoarthritis Joint Pain Relief

Compared to placebo, MSM treatment produced statistically significant decreases in WOMAC pain and physical function impairment. MSM also significantly improved performance of daily activities when compared to placebo. Secondary outcomes included significant reductions in serum homocysteine and urine malondialdehyde in those taking MSM compared to placebo. Trends towards improvement in the MSM group compared to the placebo group were observed in nearly all other outcomes studied. There were no major adverse reactions reported in the study.

"The evidence for MSM  continues to become more impressive. This recent study, along with others currently in process, will likely help verify the use of MSM as a cornerstone for those seeking optimal joint health,." says Jason Theodosakis, MD, Asst. Professor, University of Arizona College of Medicine, and author of the bestselling, The Arthritis Cure.

(Please goto the website: www.msmguide.com for lots more info)

Health Benefits of Cayenne Pepper. (With appologies from www.CayennePepper.info.)

What are the health benefits of cayenne pepper? How do cayenne peppers help you, if at all, with your weight loss diet regime?

The purported health benefits of cayenne are almost too unbelieveable, but its reputation keeps growing among medical researchers as well as alternative health afficionados and deservedly so.

It can do everything from kill cancer cells in the prostate, lungs, and pancreas to immediately stop a heart attack within 30 seconds.

Let's get into some of the specifics of cayenne pepper benefits. Cayenne pepper (or cayanne pepper as it's sometimes spelled as) increases metabolism by immediately influencing the venous structure.

It is nothing short of amazing with its effects on the circulatory system as it feeds the vital elements into the cell structure of capillaries, veins, arteries and helps adjust blood pressure to normal levels.

Yes, cayenne pepper for high blood pressure is certainly one of its core uses, but cayenne cleans the arteries as well, helping to rid the body of the bad LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Considering that heart disease is the number one killer in America, this is significant.

Cayenne is also great for the stomach and the intestinal tract. It stimulates the peristaltic motion of the intestines and aids in assimilation and elimination. When taken internally, it warms the body and has even been used by some herbalist doctors to help heal and rebuild flesh due to frostbite.

Notwithstanding its hot taste, paradoxically it is actually superb for rebuilding the tissue in the stomach, facilitating healing with stomach and intestinal ulcers. Cayenne pepper for ulcers is not something most would have considered but I can testify to that remarkability capability of cayenne.

Cayenne Pepper and Heart Health

Yes, the effect of cayenne pepper on your body is dramatic, even literally instant and no more so than with the heart.

Dr. John Christopher, the famed natural herbalist, was persecuted relentlessly by the government for his practice of herbal medicine all the while assisting patients in curing heart disease, cancer, tuberculosis, infertility, rheumatism, leukemia, and every other incurable under the sun. 

One of his greatest stories in his long career was how he could instantly stop a heart attack if he could get the patient to drink a glass of warm cayenne water. He said, "A teaspoon of cayenne should bring the patient out of the heart attack."

While this is not directly related to cayenne pepper and heart health, with internal hemorrhaging, if the patient can drink a glass of extra warm cayenne water, Dr. Christopher wrote, "...by the count of ten the bleeding will stop. Instead of all the pressure being centralized, it is equalized and the clotting becomes more rapid."

Perhaps now you can see why cayenne pepper is regarded as a true "miracle herb." With over 700,000 thousands Americans experiencing a stroke each year and almost half a million dying yearly of either heart disease or related issues, believe it not the cure is as close as your local health food establishment. How should you take cayenne? Ideally orally in a drink.

The cayenne pepper drink, when taken faithfully, will dramatically improve your heart health as well as your venous structure. Drink it with warm distilled water but if that is unavailable, purified water will substitute nicely. Start by mixing about a quarter of a teaspoon in a glass of warm water. Then, down the hatch. Don't worry, you'll get used to it.

Of course, the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating of the cayenne pepper you're using should be known. Most cayenne is between 30,000 to 50,000 SHUs.

Some, though, like the African Birdseye cayenne pepper powder can come in anywhere from 90,000 to 140,000! Needless to say, you should scale back your dosages of this until your body acclimates to its heat.

Another benefit of cayenne peppers is its antifungal properties. Cayenne pepper antifungal properties are significant although this is not its primary health benefit. Cayenne has been shown in some studies to be active against phomopsis and collectotrichum -- both are fungal pathogens.

These fungal pathogens affect fruits especially strawberries and are not directly related to humans. Currently, cayenne immune system benefits are also the subject of studies conducted by many nutritional supplement companies and microbiologists. 

Let's get even more specific. Here is a comprehensive list of all the things cayenne can do for your health and why you should make it a regular part of your daily health regime.

(I take this information from Dr. John R. Christopher's book School of Natural Healing.) By the way, the word "capsicum" is another term for cayenne pepper and is used interchangeably. That is how Dr. Christopher referred to cayenne in his book.

Key Health Benefits of Cayenne Peppers

• This herb is a great food for the circulatory system in that it feeds the necessary elements into the cell structure of the arteries, veins and capillaries so that these regain the elasticity of youth again, and the blood pressure adjusts itself to normal. It rebuilds the tissue in the stomach and heals the stomach and intestinal ulcers; in equalizing the blood circulation, Cayenne produces natural warmth in your body; and in stimulating the peristaltic motion of the intestines, it aids in assimilation and elimination.

• Cayenne regulates the flow of blood from the head to the feet so that the pressure is equalized; it influences the heart immediately, then gradually extends its effects to the arteries, capillaries, and nerves (the frequency of the pulse is not increased, but is given more vigor).

• Human circulation; it is warming; dilating; specific for varicose veins; equalizes the blood pressure in the arterial and venous system; equalizes blood pressure instantly actually.

• Cayenne is useful in alleviating allergies, muscle cramp, improving digestion, gives more pep and energy, and helps wound healing with minimal scar tissue.

• Cayenne is a counter-irritant; it brings blood to the surface and allows the toxins to be taken away.

In an article reported on March 16, 2006 by Reuters, the main ingredient in Cayenne, capsaicin, was found to destroy prostate cancer cells. Here is what the article said,

"Capsaicin led 80 percent of human prostate cancer cells growing in mice to commit suicide in a process known as apoptosis, the researchers said. Prostate cancer tumors in mice fed capsaicin were about one-fifth the size of tumors in untreated mice, they reported in the journal Cancer Research. 'Capsaicin had a profound anti-proliferative effect on human prostate cancer cells in culture,' said Dr. Soren Lehmann of the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and the University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine."

• Capsicum supports the natural beat (rhythm) of the viscera and interior actions of the glandular, circulatory, lymphatic, and digestive systems. It has been used with great success as a cure for spotted fever (?); the most active stimulant to support and re-animate feeble or exhausted powers.

• This is a medicine of great value in the practice, and may be safely used in all cases of disease, to raise and retain the internal vital heat of the system, cause a free perspiration, and keep the determining powers to the surface. The only preparation is to have it reduced to a fine powder. For a dose, take from half to a teaspoonful in hot water or tea sweetened with honey.

• Dr. Coffin includes cayenne pepper in his composition powder to restore the normal function of the body in the various stages of pregnancy and childbirth. For morning sickness he recommends a combination of ‘White poplar bark, agrimony, centaury, raspberry leaves, yarrow and rhubarb, each a quarter of an ounce, steep in two quarts of water, strain, and add while hot two teaspoons of powdered cinnamon, half a teaspoonful of Cayenne pepper, and let the patient take one tablespoonful every three hours until the symptoms are removed if this should not relieve, give an emetic and repeat if necessary.

• Great for heartburn.

• Capsicum is a powerful rubefacient.

• Capsicum is a general nervous stimulant; a specific for delirium tremens.

• For atonic gout, in paralysis, in dropsy, in tympanitis, and in the debilitated stages of fever.

• For scrofulous; dyspepsia; flatulence; it's an excellent carminative.

• For sore throats—gargle (prepare the gargle with honey); for spasmodic and irritating coughs; heartburn and diarrhea;

• Enables feeble stomachs to digest food; for atonic dyspepsia; specific for hemorrhoids; cures intermittent fever; Capsicum has the power to control menorrhagia; relieves sea-sickness;

• In delirium tremens it is beneficial by enabling the patient to retain and digest food.

• Capsicum is particularly efficient in tonsillitis, and the sore throat of scarlet fever and in diphtheria no application is so efficient as a strong gargle or wash make with Capsicum.

• Promote digestion; relieves pains of the womb; removes obstructed menstruation; for quinsy; for all diseases of the throat; use as a plaster with honey for rheumatic pains, pains of the joints, gout, swellings, etc.; Use outwardly as a liniment, apply it warm or hot for arthritis and rheumatism; gargle for scarlet fever; use an infusion for ulcers in the mouth, strep throat or tonsillitis. (p.103)

• Cayenne is an excellent remedy for a cold; mix infusion with slippery elm and molasses or honey, and take in doses throughout the day; also excellent for sore throat and coughs.

• Cayenne mixed with pennyroyal (an herb) taken for three days will expel the dead birth material from a miscarriage.

• Eases toothache; preserves the teeth from rotting, and when rubbed on the gums, stimulates them enough to prevent pyorrhea.

• Excellent for any type of internal hemorrhage, (create an infusion with bethroot or star root);

• Capsicum is an important remedy in cholera; Capsicum stops vomiting; combine with equal parts of Capsicum and common table salt, one half ounce of each, one pint of good vinegar, give in tablespoon doses for cholera, vomiting "cholera morbus" -- the gross material associated with cholera from the system

• In chronic lumbago a plaster of Capsicum with garlic, pepper and liquid amber (silarasa) or storax is an efficient stimulant and rubefacient application. (p105)

• When made into a lozenge with sugar and tragacanth it is a remedy for hoarseness.

• For a carminative make pills of equal parts of Capsicum, rhubarb and ginger or aloes.

• Combine Capsicum with cinchona for intermittent and lethargic affections and for atonic gout and in advanced stages of rheumatism.

• Combine with asafoetida and sweet flag root or camphor in the form of pills in cases of cholera.

• Capsicum has a powerful action on the mucous membrane, and in hoarseness and sore throat, and in putrid throat a gargle made of Capsicum is particularly beneficial.

• By pouring hot vinegar upon the fruits of Capsicum all the essential qualities are preserved. This vinegar is an excellent stomachic.

• The whole plant steeped in milk is successfully applied to reduce swellings and hardened tumors.

• An infusion with cinnamon and sugar is a valuable drink for patients suffering from delirium tremens as it satisfies the craving in dipsomaniacs. A dose of ten grains of finely powdered capsicum seed, given with an ounce of hot water, two or three times a day, sometimes shows wonderful effects in cases of delirium tremens.

• Capsicum can be used in the treatment of a snake bite.

• As well as the fruit being used as a spice, the leaves were applied to ulcers and headaches. (p.111)

• Capsicum is given internally in atonic dyspepsia and flatulence. It is used externally as a counter-irritant in the form of ointment, plaster, medicated wool, etc. for the relief of rheumatism and lumbago.

• Oral administration of Capsicum may stimulate the gall bladder reflex.

• Capsicum either contains a cholagogue, or acts as a powerful stimulus upon the mucous membrane of the duodenum.

• Cayenne pepper is forgotten therapeutic agent against anorexia, liver congestion, and vascular troubles. Capsicum is highly effective in causing hemorrhoids to regress; and these fruits have the same action on varicose veins. The results are attributed to alkaloids or glucosides in the peppers.

• Excessive amounts of Capsicum (above 20 grams, thus, nearly an ounce) may induce frequent bowel movements.

• Cayenne stimulates the appetite, more especially as a hot climate tends to produce anorexia. We have always held the saliva is the key that unlocks the door to digestion. Capsicum, a sialogogue, will stimulate the flow of saliva and will be very helpful to people who have become accustomed to ‘inhaling’ their food and thus robbing themselves of the benefits of saliva in the digestive process. Capsicum would stimulate their flow of saliva as they return to a healthier attitude toward eating.

• Capsicum may be valuable in the prevention and treatment of blood clots.

• Cayenne pepper is very soothing; it is effective as a poultice for rheumatism, inflammation, pleurisy, and helpful also if taken internally for these. For sores and wounds it makes a good poultice. It is a stimulant when taken internally as well as being antispasmodic. Good for kidneys, spleen and pancreas; wonderful for lockjaw; will heal a sore ulcerated stomach; Capsicum is a specific and very effective remedy for yellow fever, as well as other fevers and may be taken in capsules followed by a glass of water. (p. 119).

So, there you have it. Cayenne pepper is literally one of the greatest health secrets in the world.

Facts on honey and cinnamon:

* It is found that a mixture of honey and cinnamon cures most diseases.
* Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world. Scientists of today also accept honey as a 'Ram Ban' (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases.
* Honey can be used without any side effects for any kind of diseases.
* Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients.
* In addition to that, Weekly World News, a magazine in Canada, on its issue dated 17 January, 1995 has given the following list of diseases that can be cured by honey and cinnamon as researched by western scientists:

Immune System: Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacterial and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacterial and viral diseases.

Influenza: A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural Ingredient which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

Colds: Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold, and clear the sinuses.

Fatigue: Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts, are more alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 p.m. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

Arthritis: Arthritis patients may take daily, morning, and night, one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week, out of the 200 people so treated, practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain, and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

Bladder Infections: Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

Toothache: Make a paste of one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and five teaspoons of honey and apply on the aching tooth. This may be applied three times a day until the tooth stops aching.

Cholesterol: Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in ¾ cup of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient were found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within two hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken three times a day, any chronic cholesterol is cured. According to information received in the said journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol. (By the way. if you' re taking cholesterol medicine STOP! They all contain STATIN which weaken your muscles...including YOUR HEART and none has been shown to stop heart attacks or strokes!!!!

Upset Stomach: Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomach ache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

Gas: According to the studies done in India and Japan, it is revealed that if honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

Heart Disease: Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, instead of jelly and jam, and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also those who have already had an attack, if they do this process daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heartbeat. In America and Canada, various nursing home s have treated patients successfully and have found that as you age, the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalize the arteries and veins.

Indigestion: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

Longevity: Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old age. Take four spoons of honey, one spoon of cinnamon powder and three cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans also increases.

Pimples: Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

Skin Infections: Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

Weight Loss: Daily in the morning one half hour before breakfast on an empty stomach and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup of water. If taken regularly, it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

Cancer: Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month three times a day.

Bad Breath: People of South America, first thing in the morning, gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water, so their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

Hearing Loss: Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restore hearing."