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Greetings of winter,
Let us love winter, for it is the spring of genius” – Pietro Aretino
I am a four-season-being and welcome winter as a time to slow down a bit, conserve energy, catch-up on my reading and with a few of the projects I set aside for when I have more time; also, to “germinate” new ideas. When spring arrives, I feel renewed, energized and ready to make things happen. Such is the rhythm of nature here in New England and I try to listen.
Winter Blessings, pam
Featured herb: TURMERIC Cucuma Longa Zingiberaceae family
 Pain Relief Without Side Effects - Curcumin, the yellow pigment in turmeric Rx that gives the popular Indian spice curry its mustard-yellow color, is one of nature’s most potent anti-inflammatory agents making it an effective pain-relieving alternative to NSAID’s with no side effects. According to Jim Duke, Ph.D. a writer and authority on botanical medicine, turmeric’s use as a pain reliever precedes aspirin by at least 2,000 years! As always, the source and manufacturer are important when purchasing herbal supplements. For years,
I have recommended a formula that combines Glucosamine, MSM, Turmeric and Ginger to relieve joint pains and minimize the use of over-the-counter pain relievers. Clients respond very well to this formula. Recently, I was introduced to a new Curcuma extract that employs a special delivery system to ensure maximum absorption. (For some people, curcuma extract can be difficult to absorb.) Studies show that just one 450 mg capsule of this extract is equivalent to 4 grams of regular curcumin in terms of increasing blood levels. I’m impressed – enough so, that I personally use this formula and recommend it to clients who will also benefit.
 Early Studies Show This Curry Spice May Also Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease For years there has been speculation that curcumin intake might be a significant factor in India’s low rates of cognitive decline. Curry is a dietary staple in India, a country where the rate of Altzheimer’s disease is among the world’s lowest. Initial research shows that curcumin slows the formation of and even destroys, accumulated amyloid- plaque deposits found in the brain of Altzheimer’s patients. More recently, UCLA scientists discovered that curcumin, combined with Vitamin D3 produces more impressive results. This is early stage research and no dosage recommendations are available at this time.
Long History of Medicinal Use - In addition to relieving pain and helping to protect the brain, turmeric has a long history of use in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine as both a cooking spice and for treating inflammation, arthritis, rheumatism, bronchitis, lymphoma, colic, skin conditions, hepatitis, aiding digestion and more. Traditional use is based on empirical evidence – evidence based on observations and experience over hundreds – sometimes thousands - of years. This is information you can trust – it won’t be contradicted by new research – only expanded.
July issue of the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease
UCLA NEWSROOM.online
D. Yance: Breakthrough Solutions in Herbal Medicine. Designs for Health Institute
Ancient Herbs Modern Uses, Duke James A Ph.d. Herb Companion January 09
Glucosamine, MSM & joint comfort herbs (available from the on-line pharmacy at Elementalsherbs.com)
Thorne Research: Meriva – extract of Curcumin 1 800 228 1966
or email me to see if I have it in stock.
 To Eat Or Not To Eat…Fish? Do you sometimes feel a bit confused when purchasing fish at your local market? I read the signs on each selection – wild, farmed, organically farmed – and am still unsure what species are over-fished and what waters are safe sources. Fish is an excellent source of protein, is fast and easy to prepare and delicious to eat. Plus, the B12 found in seafood is critical for brain health. Yes, but… what about mercury? What about over-fishing? How healthy is farmed fish? I like fish and I wanted to include at least 2 servings in my weekly menu. I recently started checking The Super Green List of recommendations from Seafoodwatch.com. It takes the guess work out of shopping by identifying what are the best buys for our health and the health of the oceans. http://montereybayaquarium.org/cr/cr_seafoodwatch/sfw_health.aspx
YES! - and here are some of the many health benefits
of eating fish and supplementing with Omega 3’s.
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Eating fish and taking fish oil supplements helps reduce the effects of learning disabilities, dementia and depression.
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Most fish are low in fat and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help boost immunity and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and other ailments. Persons diagnosed with congestive heart failure or chronic agina are advised to talk with their doctor before taking Omege 3 fatty acids.
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Protects the skin against the DNA damage that can cause skin cancer.
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Omega-3s are especially important for pregnant and nursing women, and young children.
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Purity (mercury free) and freshness are important when selecting fish oil supplements. Store in the refrigerator. Check with ConsumerLab.com for recommended brands
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A typical 4 oz serving of fish is around 250 calories, and catfish, flounder, haddock, monkfish and trout have even fewer calories.
Check medlineplus.com for thousands of references to studies with Omega -3’s
A reminder: In my last newsletter I wrote about the benefits of eating a handful or two of walnut halves per day to reduce brain and arterial inflammation.
 Not So Traditional Chinese Medicine - The government of China is concerned their children are losing touch with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Elementary school children in Beijing recently began planting and learning about several Chinese medicinal herbs. The government selected herbs that are easy to grow since many of the students and teachers have no gardening experience. This is part of a larger plan to introduce TCM into Chinese schools and preserve the tradition. Herb Quarterly Winter 2009
 Got Vitamin D Yet?
More News About the Benefits
I hope you have been reading some of the research about Vitamin D and how essential it is for us to supplement – especially in the winter months. The results of a study presented at the American Heart Association meeting this winter, found that people with low levels of Vitamin D had a 45% increased risk for cardiovascular disease, 79% greater risk of stroke and double the risk for congestive heart failure – and a 77% greater risk of death compared to those with vitamin D levels in the normal range. Supplemental Vitamin D is critical for all ages and all age groups are showing deficiencies. Most likely this is the result of using sun screen for years. Check back on my previous newsletters for more information www.elementalsherbs.com and check out www.PubMed.com - a service of NIH and the National Library of Medicine. It has over 2,000 citations on Vitamin D research. For more information on this recent study go to: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/11/16/vitamin-d-shows-heart-benefits-in-study/?partner=rss&emc=rss
 St John’s Wort Helps Cool Hot Flashes - This herb is best known as an herbal anti-depressant. New findings suggest it can also be used to treat hot flashes due to menopause. In my clinical experience the menopausal experience of each woman is so different and a remedy that works for one doesn’t work for another due to constitutional differences. Also, since menopause is a major transition and our bodies are undergoing dramatic changes, a remedy that works for awhile suddenly is no longer effective and a new remedy is needed. If a client profile fits SJW I certainly would consider suggesting this herb. Consult with a health care provider before using SJW since it may interact with medication you are taking such as other anti-depressants or heart medications. Reuters Health: Jan 15, 2010
 TEA-licious News
Add a Squeeze of Lemon Juice to Your Tea - seems it dramatically improves our absorption of antioxidants by helping them survive your intestinal tract. Black Tea is a Winner - I’m sure you have noticed that green tea gets all the positive press about health benefits. Recently, Chinese scientists tested the polysaccharide and antioxidant levels of black, green, and oolong tea and found them to be most abundant in black tea. Preliminary research also suggests that drinking black tea every day may improve bone mineral density (BMD) in older women. Certainly not conclusive, but indicates even more benefits to drinking tea. Hold the Milk - Proteins in milk may bind to tea’s antioxidants preventing absorption. How Hot Is Your Tea? The consumption of hot drinks may contribute to thermal injuries in the mouth - an underlying cause of esophageal cancer, reported researchers in the British Medicial journal. The mechanism by which heat promotes the development of tumors needs further exploration. In the interim allow foods and beverages to cool from “scalding” to “tolerable.” NEHA Journal Fall 2009
“A Little Something to Sing About”
Detox, Lose Weight & Feel Great!
“I’m not dieting, I’m detoxing,” This is the newest fad in Hollywood according to pundits who report on such things. I have been supervising nutritional detoxification programs for over 12 years and have seen amazing changes in client’s well-being and health. Are you feeling sluggish? Do you want to stop your cravings for sugar, salty foods, even alcohol? Lose a few pounds? Change your diet? Then a nutritional detox program is an excellent program for you to consider for this Spring. A 21 day program will help rid the body of excess waste, help balance blood sugar, jump-start weight loss, reduce allergy responses, relieve joint pain, improve digestion, you will sleep better and the list goes on. This program does not involve fasting. You drink nutritional shakes and follow an anti-inflammatory diet under my supervision the entire 3 weeks. You will feel energized – not hungry. Small groups and one-on-one programs available. Email me at pam@elementalsherbs.com if you have questions or want more information. Some of my clients even say its fun!
Mark Your Calendars and Reserve Your Space
I will be teaching two herb workshops at Gilbertie’s Herb Gardens in Westport, CT
this Spring. They are free and open to the public. Space is limited so make your reservations soon by calling the retail store at 203 227-4175
May 22nd 1:30 p.m.
Gilbertie’s Herb Store Westport, CT
Cultivating Herbal Wisdom: Growing A Healing Herb Garden for Pleasure & Health There are many easy-to-grow, easy-to-use herbs that you can harvest and prepare to treat minor illnesses. This class is an introduction to some easy to grow medicinal herb plants that will enhance your existing garden or provide the focus for a new perennial bed. Learn how to grow them, when to harvest the plants and some simple herbal preparations such as water infusions and decoctions and the simpler's method of preparing a tincture.
June 5th 1:30 p.m.
Gilbertie’s Herb Store, Westport, CT
The Spice of life - Kitchen spices for flavor and health – Culinary herbs are easy to grow and use to improve the flavor of food and they can make an ordinary meal – extraordinary! In addition they have many health benefits and medicinal uses ranging from easing headaches and indigestion to acute infections. Our kitchen spice shelf can be thought of as containing safe and natural alternatives to many of the synthetic drugs found in the medicine cabinet! Discover the health and culinary delights of these garden favorites, how to grow them and how to store them.
Bonus: We will prepare an herbal spice mix that's both healthy
and delicious and a bit addictive. Materials Fee: $10.00 Call early to reserve your place. Limited to 12 participants
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Pam Leahy, RH (AHG) HHC
Health consultations by appointment
Offices in Norwalk and Ridgefield, CT
(203) 438 1848 www.elementalsherbs.com
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| This newsletter is for general health information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment of disease. Questions regarding your own health should be addressed to your physician or other health care provider. Each person is different: the way one person reacts to a product may be significantly different from another. Any statements about products contained in this web site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (unless otherwise indicated). Information is provided for the sole use of discussing options with your health care provider. Please check with your health care professional before taking any dietary, nutritional or herbal supplement |
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Hibiscus Flower Tea for Hypertension - 
