6 Popular herbs to increase curves naturally

There are ways to naturally promote the development of curves in the body with herbs. These herbs typically work to increase curves naturally by balancing female hormones and affecting fat distribution.

The hormone that is primarily responsible for the development of curves is the female hormone estrogen. Think back to puberty when we started developing our female parts. That was our estrogen hormone in full force telling our body fat where to go. For some women, as a result of hormone imbalance or other causes, estrogen is not produced at optimal levels which can affect shape.

That is where certain herbs that promote curves become beneficial. They generally work by promoting balance if the woman has a deficiency. Some of the herbs are rich in phytoestrogens, meaning that they contain compounds that can mimic the human estrogen. When these herbs are combined with the right types of exercise, they can produce some amazing results. The great thing about these herbs is that when taking in appropriate quantities, they can also be beneficial to the overall health and reproductive system of a woman.

Here is a list of five popular herbs that are commonly used to enhance bust and butt sizes.

Maca

When it comes to building a fuller hips and butt, there’s no other herb more popular than maca. There are hundreds of stories from women who have used this herb with great success. 

Originally from Peru, this herb has been said to bring energy and vitality, especially as an aphrodisiac. The beauty of maca is that it contains no hormones unlike many other herbs that are traditionally use to increase curves. It works with your pituatary glands to promote hormones at optimal levels.

The standard dosage for maca is 500mg daily and can be taken up to 3000mg or 6x daily. 

Maca in powder form can be easily mixed into smoothies or other fruit juices. Combining maca with strength training workouts that target areas such as glutes, thighs, hips and lower back to accentuate the curves can produce fantastic results.

For those that are prone to digestive issues, look for maca in cooked or gelatinized forms as it is easier for the system to tolerate. Maca in gelatinized form has also purified and is considered more potent than the raw form because all the goodies have been extracted.

Fenugreek

This is a unique herb that has a wide variety of uses and benefits. It is traditionally used as a seasoning in cuisines from across the world. Fenugreek also has medicinal uses and is commonly used by lactating mothers to increase milk production. It is also known to increase breast size by mimicking conditions in a woman’s body associated with breastfeeding, increasing blood flow to the area.

It is perfectly okay for women who are not lactating to take it, it will not cause milk production. It may just lead to firmer and fuller bust, and thicker hips.

Reports from women who have managed to use fenugreek for curves suggest it is quite effective. It contains a special component known as diosgenin that increases estrogen levels in the body, resulting in bigger breasts and fuller curves overall.  Fenugreek does contain phytoestrogens that mimic human estrogens and help to regulate hormones. The standard dosage for fenugreek is 500-1,000mg daily.

It should be noted, however, that fenugreek can cause allergic reactions in people with peanut allergies as the herb is a part of the legume family. 

Saw palmetto

Saw Palmetto is among the most effective herbs for bigger breasts. It is widely used for breast lifting and enlargement. This herb is renowned for its anti-androgen characteristics as well as its role in reversing the shriveling of breasts. It contains phytonutrients that stimulate the breast tissue and cause an increase in breast size.

It also serves as an aphrodisiac and increases women’s sexual activity. In the past, Saw Palmetto was used to treat disorders related to breast and enlargement of the male prostrate.

The standard dosage for saw palmetto 160-320mg once daily.

Fennel

Popular in cooking, fennel is high in estrogenic compounds just like fenugreek. 

It’s been used for centuries to enhance the size of women’s breasts and to increase the milk supply in nursing mothers. The phytoestrogens in fennel are able to mimic the effects of estrogen in the body and this includes the distribution of fat to the buttocks.  

Besides a curvier figure, fennel can help in weight loss by treating bloating and indigestion. It can also help prevent the signs of aging and is believed to aid in the prevention of certain types of cancer. 

Fennel is also chock full of copper, iron, manganese, potassium, selenium, and zinc as well as vitamins A, B-complex, C, and E.

There are fennel supplements available on the market, but fennel has a pleasant taste and most herbalists believe that fennel tea made with whole fennel seeds is the best way to ingest fennel. Simply steep fennel seeds in hot water and drink it.

Pueraria mirifica

This plant has long been used for its medicinal value especially among the people of Thailand where it is native. The Buddhist monks appraised it as having great effects on the hair, skin and even mind.

Pueraria Mirifica is a highly estrogenic herb and therefore should be used cautiously by those with estrogen sensitive conditions. It promotes curves by elevating estrogen levels in the body impacting fat distribution.

It is known to be a very effective breast enhancer for women. This is because the herb contains hormone balancing properties that enable it to increase the size of a woman’s bust. Many women that have used the herb regularly have reported a significant increase in bust size or simply fuller breasts.

Standard dosage is between 20-50mg daily taken during the mornings to increase absorption.

Dong Quai

This is possibly one of the most commonly used herbs in women’s reproductive health for good reasons. It has a mild estrogenic effect that makes it great for most women. It helps to regulate hormones and increase the efficiency of other natural herbs taken for the same effect. The herb by itself is not typically associated with increasing curves.

Other benefits of dong quai,  including increasing sexual activity of both men and women by increasing the effect of testicular and ovarian hormones on the body. Aside from this, Dong Quai may help to alleviate menstrual-related disorders such as irregular menstrual cycles, infrequent periods and cramps.

According to Dr Weil, the standard dosage for dong quai is generally 2,000 to 4,000 mg per day.

It is advisable to start with a low intake of these herbs, to allow room to watch out for any allergies that may come up. This also helps the body to adjust to the changes. Some women go over the board with herbs by taking extraneous dosage to boost estrogen levels thinking that this mean bigger curves. Taking too much of anything on a regular basis is usually not a good idea. Overloading the body with herbs high in phytoestrogens can create a toxic environment in the body and lead to more imbalance. It’s important to remember that these herbs are extremely powerful and should be used with care.

Adding to that, bone structure and genetics also dictate our curves. Meaning your butt or breasts can only grow as much it is biologically allowed to, doing anything extra is just that-extra. Otherwise, it is safe to increase the intake gradually with time until the desired dosage is reached.

Also read:

• 21 Anti-Aging Herbs and Nutrients

• 10 Best Herbs for Boosting Female Sex Drive

Neuroscience reveals how gratitude changes your brain to be happier

We often hear about the power of gratitude for creating a more positive and happy mental state. But did you know that gratitude literally transforms your brain?

According to UCLA’s Mindfulness Awareness Research Center, regularly expressing gratitude literally changes the molecular structure of the brain, keeps the gray matter functioning, and makes us healthier and happier.

When you feel happiness, the central nervous system is affected. You are more peaceful, less reactive, and less resistant. And gratitude is the most effective practice for stimulating feelings of happiness.

In one study of gratitude, conducted by Robert A. Emmons at the University of California at Davis and his colleague Mike McCullough at the University of Miami, randomly assigned participants were given one of three tasks. The participants kept a journal each week, with one group describing things they were grateful for, another describing what’s hassling them and the other keeping track of neutral events. After ten weeks, the participants in the gratitude group felt 25 percent better than the other groups, and had exercised an average of 1.5 hours more.

In a later study by Emmons with a similar set up, participants completing gratitude exercises each day offered other people in their lives more emotional support than those in other groups.

Another study on gratitude was conducted with adults suffering from congenital and adult-onset neuromuscular disorders (NMDs), with the majority of people having post-polio syndrome (PPS). Compared to those not jotting down what they’re grateful for every night, participants that did express gratitude felt more refreshed each day upon wakening. They also felt more connected with others than did participants in the group not expressing gratitude.

A fourth study didn’t require a gratitude journal, but looked at the amount of gratitude people showed in their daily lives. In this study, a group of Chinese researchers found that higher levels of gratitude were associated with better sleep, and also with lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Better sleep, with less anxiety and depression. Some compelling reasons to express gratitude more regularly.

Three simple steps to becoming more grateful

If you’ve only got time to say one prayer today, make it the simple words of “thank you.”

Here are three practical steps you can take to infusing routines of gratitude into your life.

1) Keep a daily journal of three things you are thankful for. This works well first thing in the morning, or just before you go to bed.

2) Make it a practice to tell a spouse, partner or friend something you appreciate about them every day.

3) Look in the mirror when you are brushing your teeth, and think about something you have done well recently or something you like about yourself.

Also read:

• Want to live longer? Think positively! 
• People who fret over minor things for more than a day have a much higher risk of chronic disease
• Impatience speeds up aging in DNA: People with quick tempers ages faster

Boost Stem Cells. Live Longer

Stem cells are a type of cell that has the potential to develop into different cell types in the body. Because of this, these types of cells can serve as a repair system and theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells for as long as you are alive. When a stem cell divides, each "daughter" cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a heart muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell. 

Your body already produces stem cells naturally and there’s a reserve of these replacement cells inside your bone marrow and fat tissue.

But, with age, you start to lose your stem cells and they become less effective. This is caused by overall degradation in joint health and the mitochondria.

Stem cells consist of mitochondria, which are tiny organelles in your cells that produce your body’s energy. If your mitochondria are slow and sluggish, then you’ll experience more fatigue and exhaustion in everything you do, including stem cell functioning.

In theory, we might want to simply boost stem cells while we are young and then use them to keep our heart, hips, brain, and other parts our body healthy as we age.

Stem cell therapy

Stem cell therapy involves bone marrow transplants, umbilical cord blood injections, somatic cell nuclear transfers, and many other similar sources. Basically, you take young and fresh stem cells and you inject them into your body where they’ll start healing and rejuvenating your old cells and muscle tissue.

Stem cells have been used for years to treat cancer patients and it’s been found to be effective against neurodegenerative diseases and other conditions, such as diabetes, and heart disease.

Some say that stem cell therapy is bringing about a new paradigm in health and longevity research. At the same time, there’s a lot of controversy about culturing and isolating embryonic stem cells, which is associated with abortion politics and human cloning.

That’s why it hasn’t received that much publicity nor widespread use by the general public. Until now…

If possible isn’t that a better, simpler, & safer idea than getting a transplant of stem cells?

How to promote stem cell growth naturally:

Vitamin B3 Stem Cells

There have been studies on how giving old mice vitamin B3 helped them to revitalize their stem cells. B3 is also called niacin, niacinamide or nicotinamide, and it’s one of the essential nutrients that has a big role in energy production and metabolism.

Mice who were taking niacin saw incredible anti-aging effects. They saw muscle regeneration, growth of brain and skin cells thanks to stem cell activity. Their life spans were also substantially longer than the mice’ who didn’t get B3.

In another study on a group of mice, they gave half of them vitamin B3 for 3-4 months and they had more energy, less weight, and improved insulin sensitivity. They could even run 33% longer than the mice who didn’t get the vitamin.

Foods rich in niacin are fish, poultry, meat, beef, mushrooms, organ meats, peanuts, sunflower seeds, coffee, tahini and fortified cereal.

Taking a B3 supplement can also be a good idea. I recommend at least 250 mg a day.

Boost Your NAD+ Levels

Vitamin B3 helps to break down a molecule called nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), which is needed for transferring calories into the mitochondria where they’ll be converted to ATP. NAD can work in 2 forms: NAD+ and NADH.

Low levels of NAD+ increase brain degeneration, inflammation, body fat, fatigue and muscle loss.

If you have too much energy coming in from the outside, then this will lead to the accumulation of NADH, which prevents your body from using its internal fat stores. Thus the mitochondria will become less efficient. Caloric restriction has been shown to raise NAD+ levels in the cells, as does carbohydrate depletion.

States of ketosis can also increase NAD+ levels by promoting the mitochondrial ability to burn fat for fuel. Other ways of increasing NAD+ are exercise, and cold-heat-exposure.

Fasting

Intermittent fasting is another great way to not only boosting NAD+ but to also trigger stem cell activation.

An article recently came out saying that fasting boosts stem cell numbers. The team from USC found that even just a few days of fasting increased the number of stem cells in our blood system.

There are many studies showing how fasting for up to 3 days reduces inflammation, boosts the immune system by increasing white blood cell count, and promoting autophagy.

Turmeric

Curcumin or turmeric contains a bioactive compound called Aromatic (ar-) turmerone, which can induce neural stem cell proliferation.

Turmeric has also many other anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that promote the creation of new brain cells and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

Herbs

Different herbs and herbal extracts can be used to promote tissue regeneration in both stem cell therapy and tissue engineering.

Examples of stem cell boosting herbs are

• Dried root of Drynariae fortune, Rhizoma Drynariae, which contains flavonoid and triterpenoid compounds and its use increases bone cell viability and intracellular total proteins.
• Dried root extract of the Korean herb Dipsacus asper is used in the treatment of bone fracture.
• Foeniculum vulgare has been used in traditional medicine to increase milk secretion, promote menstruation, facilitate birth, and alleviate the symptoms of dysmenorrhea.
• Dhanwantram kashaya, used in Ayurvedic medicine to stimulate growth and nerve regeneration.
• The root extract of Angelica dahuricae has been used as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and antioxidant remedy in Chinese and Korean herbal medicine.

You get the point – aim for the more micronutrient dense herbs.

Spirulina and Algae Supplements

Mice who were fed spirulina for 28 days grew new and stronger stem cells.

Spirulina promotes stem cell genesis and protects against declines in neural stem cell proliferation.

Spirulina and chlorella also contain small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and EPA, which are the most important fatty acids for the brain. They already promote cognitive functioning and neural health so it makes sense that they’ll also have longevity effects on the entire body.

Exercise

The human body seems designed to increase stem cell numbers when we are more active. This makes great sense if you consider that the more active that we are the more new cells that we’ll need as we are likely to lose more of our older cells by exercising. Here are two papers backing up the idea of exercise boosting our stem cell numbers.

Macaluso, FKH Myburgh (2012) Current evidence that exercise can increase the number of adult stem cells. Journal of muscle research and cell motility. 33:3-4:187-98.

Blackmore, DG, et al. (2009) Exercise increases neural stem cell number in a growth hormone-dependent manner, augmenting the regenerative response in aged mice. Stem Cells. 27:8:2044-52.

Tai chi

Researchers in China have reported that people who practice the martial art Tai Chi saw a several-fold boost in their stem cell populations (by which they meant a specific type of cell called a “Progenitor CD34+Cells” cell. This seems a little too good to be true in terms of magnitude, but could fit in with the exercise boost discussed above.

Sleep

Although I wrote earlier about how activity could boost stem cell levels, it also kind of makes sense that stem cells may do their thing while we are asleep. Stem cell science also supports this idea as well.

Protect yourself and your stem cells from radiation

When you read this you probably are thinking of dental or chest x-rays or CT scans, but I think a far more important source of radiation for most of us is UV light from the sun.

It is smart to protect your skin stem cells. Become an educated user of sunscreens and about sun exposure. Their use is complex and in fact may be harmful if misused as most of us do. In any case, the best protection from skin cancer is shade or if you have to be out in the sun, clothing. Do not let sunscreen increase your sun exposure dramatically or its use will backfire.

Next article will be about foods that can protect skin from sun damage.

Also read:

• Stem cell brain implants could 'slow aging and extend life', study shows

Do YOU suffer from insomnia? You may be lacking in MAGNESIUM

Consuming too much caffeine after 3pm, not enough exercise or an overload of stress hormones are most often the culprits of insomnia. But an array of recent trials have pointed the blame at a magnesium deficiency for thousands of people who toss and turn at night.

Studies have shown magnesium supplements can increases sleep time, efficiency and natural melatonin levels - a hormone critical for the regulation of normal sleep. 

Now, new research has found magnesium applied directly to the skin can deliver the mineral to the body quicker and more efficiently than ingested supplements - and help improve sleep quality in 92 per cent of deficient people. 

What is insomnia? 

Insomnia is a huge global problem, affecting around a third of men and women in their 30s and 40s and nearly half of women over 65.

There are two types, Type 1 insomnia where you can't get to sleep and Type 2, where you can get to sleep okay, but tend to wake at least once during the night.

And if you have either type, the chances are you have heard a million and one remedies: get black out blinds, eat some peanut butter before bed, get a sleep mantra, take a Valium. Actually don't. The latter is addictive and the formers, well, they're hit and miss at best.  

Magnesium: The facts 

Indeed, waking in the small hours is often associated with stress, anxiety or depression and these are conditions that can be exacerbated by magnesium deficiency, said nutrition expert Greg Weatherhead. But there are many more.

'Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body and all our cells rely on adequate levels being maintained,' said Mr Weatherhead. 

'It's responsible for over 300 biochemical functions in the body and sufficient amounts allow us to be more flexible, develop stronger bones, produce energy more efficiently and be better able to resist disease.'

While magnesium is predominantly found in nuts, wholegrain seeds and green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, decreasing levels in our Western diets have long been reported and amounts in our most common foods have declined by about 20 per cent since the 1950s, Mr Weatherhead added.

In fact, the most recent government funded UK Diet and Nutrition Report updated in March this year, showed more and more of us have below optimal intakes of magnesium, with teenage girls and the over 60's being at particular risk of deficiency.

Moreover, diets that include an excess of processed foods and bad fats such as those found in takeaways, donuts and commercial vegetable oils as well as refined sugars can all decrease our magnesium levels.

How does magnesium help sleep?

So, how can supplementing with a drug free mineral help people sleep, when so many other sleep remedies rarely make the cut?

'Magnesium is critical to many physiological and psychological processes that are essential for staying asleep,' Mr Weatherhead said. These include calming the mind and also helping muscles relax.

Along with helping to reduce levels of cortisol and adrenaline that could be waking us during sleep or causing erratic slumber, magnesium also works on a lesser known hormone essential to sleep.

'It helps improve sleep quality through its interaction with a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid),' Mr Weatherhead said.

'GABA is an amino acid responsible for reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation and preparing our bodies for sleep.'

Magnesium sensitises GABA receptors in the brain, increasing the positive effect of this molecule.

Why is magnesium on the skin better for insomnia than tablets?

'Unfortunately, our intake of magnesium has declined dramatically due to intensified farming methods, food processing and negative interactions with an increasing number of prescribable mediations,' said Mr Weatherhead.

'Magnesium is a mineral we evolved to have little and often and our digestive systems are not well equipped to absorb large single doses of magnesium such as those found in tablets and capsules.

'Either, much of the dose is simply not broken down and absorbed or it is lost through a loosening of the bowels, a common effect seen with a high intake of ingested magnesium tablets.'

There are a number of clinical studies published showing that magnesium delivered via the skin is an effective alternative to traditional tablet supplementation, said Mr Weatherhead.

In 2017, a study published in PLOS One, found that magnesium absorbed through skin significantly boosted magnesium levels in the blood.

A pilot study published in 2010 showed that BetterYou Magnesium could elevate cellular magnesium levels faster than traditional tablets or capsules.

Topical magnesium specialists BetterYou have worked with the Cardiff University academics on absorption testing for magnesium.

They are now in the final stages of the world's first clinical study with St Mark's Hospital London, investigating how magnesium applied to the skin can replace intravenous drips and subcutaneous injections for patients with severe bowel and digestive disorders. 

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY? 

• Poor quality sleep
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Restless legs
• Joint discomfort
• Muscle tension and pain
• Muscle or eye twitching
• Weak bones
• Low mood
• Headaches
• Migraines
• Poor concentration

Also read:

• 13 scientifically-proven tips to improve your sleep
• America has hit a 'dreamlessness epidemic', and it is affecting our mental and physical health
• A single poor night’s sleep can age you
• Lack of sleep WILL make you sick
• Clean sleeping - the latest preachy trend

CBD Oil Shows Remarkable Health Benefits

The use of medical marijuana continues to be an emotionally and politically charged issue. Although cannabis oil preparations have been used in medicine for millennia, the concern over the dangers of abuse led to the banning of the medicinal use of marijuana in the 1930s.

Only recently, marijuana and chemically related compounds have come back to being considered of therapeutic value. A prominent compound found in marijuana or cannabis, CBD, or cannabidiol, has shown to treat numerous diseases. Researchers believe that in view of the very low toxicity and the generally benign side effects of CBD, neglecting or denying CBD benefits and its clinical potential is simply unacceptable.

What Is CBD?

CBD is one of over 60 compounds found in cannabis that belong to a class of ingredients called cannabinoids. Until recently, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) was getting most of the attention because it’s the ingredient in cannabis that produces mind-altering effects in users.

Does CBD Oil Create a High?

The short answer is: No. (Though oils with THC can also contain CBD).

Unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive. This means that it does not change the state of mind of the person who uses it. However, it does appear to produce significant changes in the body and has been found to have medical benefits.

Most of the CBD used medicinally is found in the least processed form of the cannabis plant, known as hemp.

Hemp and marijuana come from the same plant, cannabis sativa, but they are very different.

Over the years, marijuana farmers have selectively bred their plants to be very high in THC and other compounds that interested them, either for a smell or an effect they had on the plant's flowers.

On the other hand, hemp farmers have not tended to modify the plant. It is these hemp plants that are used to create CBD oil.

Marijuana CBD vs. Hemp CBD: Which One is Best?

As mentioned, the main difference when thinking about marijuana-derived CBD vs hemp-derived CBD come down to the plant differences more than the CBD oil/CBD extract. It's kinda like clover honey vs. orange blossom honey - there's a slight different in taste but they're both honey when it comes down to it. So what becomes the tie breaker? Legality.

To use medical marijuana, it has to be legal in the state that you live in as well as for the condition you have. As mentioned above, hemp-derived CBD is far more accessible and can be bought from many different places. 

CBD Oil Benefits:

Relieves Pain and Inflammation

Among common CBD benefits, natural pain relief tops the list for many. Evidence suggests that cannabinoids may prove useful in pain modulation by inhibiting neuronal transmission in pain pathways. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine found that CBD significantly suppressed chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain in rodents without causing analgesic tolerance. Researchers suggest that CBD and other nonpsychoactive components of marijuana may represent a novel class of therapeutic agents for the treatment of chronic pain. 

Has Antipsychotic Effects

Research shows that CBD benefits include producing antipsychotic effects. It appears to have a pharmacological profile similar to that of atypical antipsychotic drugs as seen using behavioral and neurochemical techniques in animal studies. Additionally, studies show that CBD prevents human experimental psychosis and is effective in open case reports and clinical trials in patients with schizophrenia, with a remarkable safety profile.

Reduces Anxiety

Studies using animal models of anxiety and involving healthy volunteers clearly suggest an anxiolytic-like effect of CBD. Cannabidiol has shown to reduce anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder and researchers suggest that it may also be effective for panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.

A 2011 study aimed to compare the effects of a simulation public speaking test on healthy control patients and treatment-native patients with social anxiety disorder. A total of 24 never-treated patients with social anxiety disorder were given either CBD or placebo 1.5 hours before the test. Researchers found that pretreatment with CBD significantly reduced anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort in their speech performance, and significantly decreased alertness in anticipation of their speech. The placebo group presented higher anxiety, cognitive impairment and discomfort. 

Helps to Fight Cancer

Several scientific reports demonstrate that CBD benefits include possessing antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic effects that inhibit cancer cell migration, adhesion and invasion. A 2006 study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics found for the first time that CBD potently and selectively inhibited the growth of different breast tumor cell lines and exhibited significantly less potency in non-cancer cells. 

In 2011, researchers added light on the cellular mechanism through which CBD induces cell death in breast cancer cells. They showed that CBD induced a concentration-dependent cell death of both oestrogen receptor-positive and oestrogen receptor-negative breast cancer cells. They also found that the effective concentrations of CBD in tumor cells have little effect on non-tumorigenic, mammary cells.

CBD behaves as a non-toxic compound and studies show that doses of 700 milligrams per day for 6 weeks did not show any overt toxicity in humans, suggesting that it can be used for prolonged treatment. Not only does the research show that CBD benefits including being effective in fighting breast cancer cells, data also suggests that it can be used to inhibit the invasion of lung and colon cancer, plus it possesses anti-tumor properties in gliomas and has been used to treat leukemia. 

Relieves Nausea

Cannabis has been used for centuries for the suppression of nausea and vomiting. Research has revealed that among more than 80 cannabinoid compounds found in marijuana, both the intoxicant THC and the non-intoxicant CBD helps to get rid of nausea and vomiting in animal studies. A 2012 study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that CBD benefits including possessing anti-nausea and antiemetic effects when it was administered to rats. 

Might Have Neuroprotective Properties

Researchers believe that CBD’s ability to act on the endocannabinoid system and other brain signaling systems may provide benefits for those with neurological disorders.

In fact, one of the most studied uses for CBD is in treating neurological disorders like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Though research in this area is still relatively new, several studies have shown promising results.

Sativex, an oral spray consisting of CBD and THC, has been proven to be a safe and effective way to reduce muscle spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis.

One study found that Sativex reduced spasms in 75% of 276 people with multiple sclerosis who were experiencing muscle spasticity that was resistant to medications.

Another study gave 214 people with severe epilepsy 0.9–2.3 grams of CBD oil per pound (2–5 g/kg) of body weight. Their seizures reduced by a median of 36.5%.

One more study found that CBD oil significantly reduced seizure activity in children with Dravet syndrome, a complex childhood epilepsy disorder, compared to a placebo.

However, it’s important to note that some people in both these studies experienced adverse reactions associated with CBD treatment, such as drowsiness, fatigue, fever and diarrhea.

CBD has also been researched for its potential effectiveness in treating several other neurological diseases.

For example, several studies have shown that treatment with CBD improved quality of life and sleep quality for people with Parkinson’s disease.

Additionally, animal and test-tube studies have shown that CBD may decrease inflammation and help prevent the neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

In one long-term study, researchers gave CBD to mice genetically predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease, finding that it helped prevent cognitive decline.

Lowers Incidence of Diabetes

A 2006 study found that CBD treatment significantly reduced the incidence of diabetes in non-obese diabetic mice from an incidence of 86 percent in non-treated mice to an incidence of 30 percent in CBD-treated mice. CBD benefits also showed a significant reduction of plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. A histological examination of the pancreatic islets of the CBD-treated mice revealed significantly reduced insulitis. 

In 2013, the American Journal of Medicine published a study that highlighted the impact of marijuana use on glucose, insulin and insulin resistance among U.S. adults. The study included 4,657 adult men and women from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey from 2005 to 2010. Of the participants, 579 were current marijuana users and 1,975 were past users. The researchers found that current marijuana use was associated with 16 percent lower fasting insulin levels. They also found significant associations between marijuana use and smaller waist circumferences, a factor connected to the onset of diabetes symptoms. 

Promotes Cardiovascular Health

A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology reports that CBD protects against the vascular damage caused by a high glucose environment, inflammation or the induction of type 2 diabetes in animal models; plus, CBD proved to reduce the vascular hyperpermeability (which causes leaky gut) associated with such environments.

CBD May Be Beneficial for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, cannabinoids may provide relief of joint pain and swelling, and decrease joint destruction and disease progression.

Administration of CBD protected joints against severe damage, decreased progression, and produced improvement of arthritis in animal models.

The first controlled trial showed that administration of Sativex over 5 weeks produced significant improvements in the intensity of pain on movement and at rest, quality of sleep, and inflammation. No serious adverse effects were observed.

Cannabidiol May Help with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Studies confirmed that CBD prevents colitis in animal models of IBD.

The combination of CBD and THC may reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms of IBD, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and reduced appetite.

Studies also showed that CBD may be a good candidate to normalize gut motility in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

CBD may reduce gut inflammation severity through activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma).

Fights Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria

Researchers discovered that cannabinoids (including CBD) have an unusual ability to destroy bacteria (especially drug-resistant strains). More research is needed to find out how and why it works.

A 2011 study found that CBD can also slow the progression of tuberculosis in rats. Researchers concluded that CBD likely does this by inhibiting T-cell proliferation, rather than possessing antibacterial properties.

Whatever the mechanism is for destroying bacteria, CBD seems to be a potent weapon against the antibiotic resistant “superbugs” that are becoming more and more of a problem today.

Reduces Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is responsible for many ailments today. Oxidative stress is when the body has too many free radicals and can’t keep up with neutralizing them (with antioxidants). This is more of a problem now than in the past because our environment is so much more toxic than it once was. A 2010 study shows that CBD oil acts as an antioxidant and another study found CBD has neuroprotective qualities. So CBD can reduce neurological damage caused by free radicals.

Cannabidiol May Treat Depression

According to researchers, CBD has antidepressant-like effects in mice.

Studies found that antidepressant effects of CBD were fast, continuous over time, and comparable to a common tricyclic medication imipramine, also known as Tofranil.

Promotes Healthy Weight

Cannabidiol can help maintain healthy blood sugar, stimulates genes and proteins that helps break down fat, and increase mitochondria that helps burn calories.

CBD also encourages the body to convert white fat to brown fat. White fat is the kind of fat we typically think of when we think about body fat. Brown fat is fat that is in small deposits that behaves differently than white fat. Brown fat is said to improve health by enhancing the bodies ability to burn white fat, create heat, and even regulate blood sugar.

Cannabidiol May Help with Insomnia

Research suggests taking CBD before bed improves sleep in people with insomnia.

Can’t fall asleep at night and wake up feeling more tired in the morning than you did the night before? Biohacking Insomnia is the only sleep resource guide that looks at all the possible factors you’re missing out on restorative sleep and works to get you sleeping better from a holistic viewpoint so you can finally get your nights-and your days-back the way they should be.

Improves Skin Conditions

CBD oil can be used topically to treat skin conditions. Studies show CBD oil has a high potential for treating skin conditions like eczema by encouraging abnormal cell death. It can also help regulate the skin’s oil production, reducing acne. CBD also contains many nutrients like vitamin E that help improve and protect the skin.

CBD Reverse the Signs of Aging

Science has shown that not only is CBD a powerful antioxidant, it might actually be a more powerful antioxidant than both vitamins C and E. In fact, a study released in 1998 by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America expressed that “cannabidiol was more protective against glutamate neurotoxicity than either ascorbate or α-tocopherol, indicating it to be a potent antioxidant”.

May Reduce Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that affects more than 9% of the population. It is thought to be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, bacteria, underlying inflammation and the overproduction of sebum, an oily secretion made by sebaceous glands in the skin.

Based on recent scientific studies, CBD oil may help treat acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce sebum production.

One test-tube study found that CBD oil prevented sebaceous gland cells from secreting excessive sebum, exerted anti-inflammatory actions and prevented the activation of “pro-acne” agents like inflammatory cytokines.

Another study had similar findings, concluding that CBD may be an efficient and safe way to treat acne, thanks in part to its remarkable anti-inflammatory qualities.

Though these results are promising, human studies exploring the effects of CBD on acne are needed.

Other Potential Benefits:

Antipsychotic effects: Studies suggest that CBD may help people with schizophrenia and other mental disorders by reducing psychotic symptoms.

Substance abuse treatment: CBD has been shown to modify circuits in the brain related to drug addiction. In rats, CBD has been shown to reduce morphine dependence and heroin-seeking behavior.

Cannabidiol Promotes Bone Growth

Rodents with broken limbs healed much faster when treated with CBD.

Feeding the Narcissist

We all know people who require constant attention and affirmation--so much so that supporting and propping them up can even feel like a second job.

And no one's talking about restaurant food here. What narcissists really need is something psychologists call "emotional supplies." People who feel defective or empty are everywhere - and they suffer deeply. Most spend their days attempting to shore themselves up, maintain self-esteem, and garner enough external emotional support to make it through the day without feeling they will fall apart. This self-focus and preoccupation is what makes narcissists seem selfish, even arrogant.

But appearances do not tell the whole story. What looks like bravado or conceit often masks an underlying insecurity.

Everyone loves a compliment. Who doesn’t like to be praised and adored. Who doesn’t want to be honoured.

Your self esteem is very much important. Feeling good about yourself is a wonderful experience. In fact, compliments have been known to aid a healthy lifestyle. So having other people voice out how wonderful, beautiful and awesome you are is even a big plus.

However, things become interesting when you begin to fish for compliments. 

Do you know that your crave for praise and compliment, though genuine,  can cause a drastic effect and shape your world in ways you never imagined?

You are hurting your relationships:

The more you keep fishing for compliments, the more you appear to be old and needy.

When you constantly seek the validation of others to feel worthy and happy, you constantly put pressure on your family, friends, colleagues and loved ones to make you feel happy. 

Too much of everything isn’t good so what turns out to be be sweet and awesome, turns into hatred and disdain.

Love is never forceful. Happiness isn’t external. You don’t need the validation of others to be significant. You don’t need the permission of others to feel worthy.

You are hurting your self esteem:

If you can’t be happy or feel good about yourself without hearing from others.  You can’t do the best at work without someone saying that you did a good job or you need the compliments of others to feel loved, then you are hurting your self esteem.

When you hurt your self esteem, you are hurting your existence. You are making your thoughts lie about you.

Each time you seek for validation, you give power to others to define your existence. You give them permission to write your own story.

You are special because you have so much inside to make a difference. Your existence lights your world and you matter to your generation.

By being you, there are people whose lives you will definitely change for the better. 

Do you know that fishing for more compliments doesn’t make you feel better about yourself?

Think about it! That is the more reason why you seek more compliments.

The more compliments you seek, the more you become addicted to hearing more compliments.

Standing on the shoulders of compliments to make a difference in your life is limiting yourself plus your existence.

You are powerful beyond measure which is why compliments should never replace your inner drivers (passion, purpose and God-given gifts)

The Remarkable Benefits of Astragalus Root

Astragalus root is a herb that’s tremendously important in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known for its many health benefits, especially its potential to slow the aging process. The herb was hailed as a protector against stresses, both mental and physical. Astragalus provides health benefits to a number of body systems and ailments. Because of the tremendous success of so many research studies and trials, new information about astragalus is coming to light all the time. In general, its greatest strength is preventing and protecting cells against cell death and other harmful elements, such as free radicals and oxidation.

According to continuing research, astragalus health benefits include:

Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory

Inflammation is at the root of most diseases. From arthritis to heart disease, it’s often the culprit of the damage. Many studies show that thanks to its saponins and polysaccharides, astragalus can reduce inflammatory response in connection to a number of illnesses and conditions, from helping to heal wounds and lesions to reducing inflammation in diabetic kidney disease.

Boosts the Immune System

In terms of reputation, boosting the immune system is astragalus’ claim to fame. It’s been used in this capacity for thousands of years. A study out of Beijing displayed its ability to control t-helper cells 1 and 2, essentially regulating the body’s immune responses.

Contains Antioxidative, Anti-Aging, and Longevity Capabilities

Astragalus is well-known for its anti-aging effect. New and exciting research is currently being conducted that shows that Astragalus does, indeed, have powerful anti-aging properties, slowing the aging process at a cellular level.

Oxidation due to free radical damage is the main component in disease and aging, and many elements found in astragalus fight free radical damage and prevent of oxidative stress. 

It has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine for longevity, to invigorate qi (vital energy) and to strengthen the body. It seems to have solid scientific basis too, since a component of Astragalus called cycloastragenol is found to increase telomerase, an enzyme that promotes telomere health. Telomeres are the end portions of DNA; they get shortened every time the cell undergoes division. Hence, telomere length is a more reliable indicator of biological age and longevity than the chronological age of a person.

Slows or Prevents the Growth of Tumors

Many recent screenings have shown the success of astragalus saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides in decreasing or eliminating tumors. In instances of chemoresistance treating liver cancer, astragalus has shown potential in reversing multidrug resistance and as an addition to conventional chemotherapy, according to a study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology.

Protects the Cardiovascular System

The flavonoids present in astragalus are antioxidants that help prevent plaque buildup in arteries and narrowing of vessel walls by protecting the inner wall of the vessel. In addition, a 2014 study published in the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine suggests injection of astragalus, combined with conventional treatment for viral myocarditis (inflammation of the middle layer of the heart wall), makes treatment more successful in heart conditions.

Other studies have shown its ability to reduce blood pressure and level of triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides put individuals at risk for many forms of heart disease, such as stroke, heart attack and hardening of artery walls.

During a heart attack, heart muscle damage occurs when there is a lack of blood supply and oxygen. At that time, calcium overload creates secondary damage. Astragalus may prevent additional heart muscle damage by regulating calcium homeostasis in the heart.

Regulates and Prevents Diabetes and Illnesses Related to Diabetes

Astragalus has been studied progressively as an antidiabetic. Studies show its ability to relieve insulin resistance and treat diabetes naturally. The herb’s collection of saponins, flavonoids and polysaccharides all are effective in treating and regulating type 1 and 2 diabetes. They’re able to increase insulin sensitivity, protect pancreatic beta cells (the cells in the pancreas that produce and release insulin) and also act as anti-inflammatories in areas related to diabetes symptoms. 

Kidney disease in diabetics is also a common problem, and astragalus has been used to treat kidney illness for many years. More recent studies in humans and animals have shown astragalus can slow the progress of kidney problems in diabetics and protect the renal system.

Aids in Wound Healing and Minimizes Scarring

Because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, astragalus has a long history of treating wounds. Radix astragali, another name for the dried root of astragalus, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for the repair and regeneration of injured organs and tissues.

In a 2012 study by the Institute of Pharmaceutics at Zhejiang University, wounds treated with astragaloside IV (the active ingredient in dried astragalus root) showed recovery rates increase two- to threefold over 48–96 hours. It was concluded that astragalus is a promising natural product for anti-scarring and healing in wounds.

Alleviates Symptoms of Chemotherapy

Astragalus has been shown to help patients receiving chemotherapy to recover more quickly and extend their life spans. In cases of severe chemotherapy symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and bone marrow suppression, astragalus has been given intravenously and in combination with other Chinese herbal mixtures. Early research suggests its ability to reduce these symptoms and increase the efficacy of the chemotherapy treatments.

Treats Colds and Flu

Because of astragalus’ antiviral capabilities, it has long been used to treat common colds and the flu. It’s commonly combined with other herbs like ginseng, angelica and licorice. As with many other natural cold remedies, it seems to work better when used when healthy individuals use the supplement regularly in order to prevent the illness before it happens. A regimen of astragalus before the colder months of winter may help to prevent or decrease the number of colds and upper respiratory illnesses individuals will have throughout the season.

Provides Supplemental Therapy for Chronic Asthma

Astragalus has been used to treat chronic asthma and determined to be a successful supplemental therapy and asthma natural remedy. After being treated, hypersensitivity in airways decreased substantially and mucus production and inflammation were reduced in studies. By preventing or reducing asthma attacks, individuals could be relieved of chronic asthma issues.

Sexual Health

Traditionally prescribed in Chinese Medicine for male infertility, Astragalus has now been scientifically proven to increase sperm motility in a study conducted by the Institutes of Traditional Medicine and Clinical Medicine. It is extremely supportive of male hormones, by balancing glucose levels it can optimise testosterone and growth hormone levels. 

There is also evidence to suggest astragalus can successfully:

• prevent collagen degradation 
• help heal lung tissue affected by bronchopulmonary dysplasia in newborns
• inhibit herpes simplex virus 1 
• prevent the replication of viruses like Coxsackie B-3, a virus that triggers illnesses ranging from mild stomach issues to major heart complications
• treat inflammation in allergic dermatitis (an allergic reaction of the skin) 
• help treat hepatitis by inhibiting hepatitis B virus cells in the liver
• treat HIV by protecting t-helper cells fight the virus for much longer
• be used as a mild diuretic 

Typical Use

Astragalus Tincture: 3 - 5 ml, three times a day. Powdered Astragalus root: 1/2g - 1g, three or four times per day.

Precautions

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use Astragalus.

Also read:

• He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti): The Herb of Intuition and Longevity
• Schizandra, The Quintessence of Tonic Herbs
• The amazing benefits of Ashwagandha