NATURAL HORMONE CREAM

Organic Flower Pollen Extract Offers Hormone Balance

2008-08-23T02:45:00.000-07:00

As women continue to seek alternatives to estrogen replacement therapy, a large amount of clinical trials have proven that organic flower pollen alleviates symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Organic Flower Pollen is a non-hormone herbal remedy which relieves hot flushes and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). This is great news for those women who have been seeking answers from natural and safe pathways of health. In one clinical study, women were randomly given either organic flower pollen each morning, or two identical placebos for three months of treatment. The goal was to see whether the herb alleviated the symptoms of menopause, specifically hot flushes. The patients were asked to evaluate sixteen symptoms of menopause using Menopause Rating Scales (MRS) at four-week intervals and on inclusion or the study. Additionally, certain menopausal symptoms were recorded every day throughout the study. Among those who received the organic flower pollen, sixty-five percent responded with a reduction in hot flushes, compared to thirty-eight percent of those in the placebo group. MRS evaluation of hot flushes showed similar results demonstrating the benefits of organic pollen extract. The pollen extract significantly reduced hot flushes and certain other menopausal symptoms when it was compared to the placebo in this study.

Organic flower pollen also offers one of the safest methods of achieving optimal health for women. This herb is made from the pollens of seven specific varieties of organically grown flowers, which are cultivated in the southern parts of Sweden. Highly specialized processes are then used to produce the pollen extracts, in turn, simulating the natural pollination processes of flowers by mixing fresh pollen and pistils. In order to ensure purity, only one type of flower is grown in each field or greenhouse, and the pollen in the fields is hand-collected at precisely the right time, before it is collected by bees or carried away by the wind. A special enzymatic process then extracts the nutrients from inside the pollen grain, leaving the hard outer shell behind. This minimizes the allergy potential and makes the extracted pollen very easy to absorb. Finally, each finished batch is tested to ensure the removal of allergens.

Organic flower pollen has been researched in many clinical studies since 1991, all of which have shown significant improvement in PMS and menopause symptoms after only two months of continuous use. Although no known direct hormonal effect has been found in organic flower pollen, those who use it can have the following results: less bloating and water retention; fewer aches, pains, and cramps; improved mood and less irritability; more restful sleep; fewer hot flushes and less sweating; and overall improved well-being.

This herb is not bee pollen, but rather flower pollen that is harvested before it is gathered by bees. It is an extremely nutrient-dense substance that has been used for a long time in the treatment of many different conditions and diseases. Pollen from one plant has an entirely different pharmalogical effect than other pollens. Bee pollen contains an unknown variety of pollens because the bees collect from a number of different flowers. Organic flower pollen is a specific blend of seven distinct cultivars, each of which is organically grown in organically cultivated fields and greenhouses.

By: Darrell Miller

The Delicate Interplay Of Natural Hormones

2008-08-09T22:49:00.000-07:00

The human body is made up of a gloriously complex network of systems that work in tandem to support everyday functioning. At the heart of it all are the natural hormones produced by the glands throughout the body; orchestrating the myriad of processes that we take for granted. Without these natural hormones our bodies could not perform the innumerable actions it executes on a daily basis.

Natural hormones start working from the moment of conception, deciding our gender and establishing a host of system functions that will make us able to survive in the world. We are so sensitive to the over or under production of natural hormones in our bodies that fluctuations can lead to a variety of illness. The complexity is difficult to comprehend as the functions we take for granted such as heart rate and breathing are regulated by natural hormones.

Different glands throughout the body produce different natural hormones that work to support different functions. The pituitary gland produces growth hormone, a natural hormone that regulates growth and the metabolism. The kidneys produce Vitamin D, a natural hormone that helps strengthen bones. The pancreas produces the natural hormone insulin that regulates sugar levels in our bodies. When the pancreas fails to produce consistent levels of insulin, diabetes can result.

The adrenal glands regulate male and female hormones. In the female body these are the ovaries which produce estrogen to support menstruation and pregnancy. In the male body the testes produce testosterone. The production of estrogen is so important a natural hormone in a woman’s body that when estrogen stops being produced during menopause, many women experience a bevy of symptoms that causes them to turn to hormone replacement therapy. However, replacing natural hormones with synthetic hormones has been highly controversial as researchers are unclear about long term effects.

Natural hormones are another amazing part of the miracle of the human body. It is another example of how delicate the balance is between all the necessary components that make our bodies work efficiently.

By Michelle Bery

Natural Testosterone

2008-07-30T01:13:00.000-07:00

Natural testosterone is naturally derived from soybeans. It is identical to the androgenic hormone secreted by human testes. The use of natural testosterone is recommended for those who are suffering from testosterone deficiency. Increasing the testosterone level in the body by supplementing natural testosterone is much safer than the use of synthetic testosterone. Natural testosterone is generally extracted in laboratories. Use of natural testosterone has become popular since the 1930s. Like other medicines, it is easily available from compounding pharmacies.

Natural testosterone supplement is applicable for men showing signs of low testosterone symptoms such as decreased strength, loss of libido, and mood swings. It provides proper relief without the risks associated with anabolic steroids. The supplement of this hormone is permissible to persons without any severe medical conditions. Application of this hormone will maximize sexual potency, provide energy for daily activities, enhance level of physical function and bone density, and tone muscle mass. In the human body, natural testosterone has a half life of 10 minutes, so it is widely used as an effective drug for body building applications.

Pharmacies sell a variety of natural testosterone preparations including sublingual lozenges, oral capsules, topical gels, and topical creams. In addition, it can be directly applied to blood without pills or shots. The dosage of the hormone is highly individualized. Excess dosage makes more complex physical problems such as liver problems and cancer. The male testes can produce about 15 mg of testosterone daily. It should be considered while determining dosage.

In women, natural testosterone is used to promote libido. If a woman experience low libido, the right treatment is progesterone supplementation for a minimum of six months. For those who don?t get any relief from this treatment, try a small amount (about 0.5 - 2 mg in the mornings) of natural testosterone.

Researches have revealed that supplementation of small amounts of natural testosterone enhances the good effects of other hormones.

By Kristy Annely

What Is HGH (Human Growth Hormone)?

2008-07-07T05:25:00.000-07:00

The first step in our education is to become familiar with some of the terms and definitions used while discussing Human Growth Hormone. Ready? Let's jump right in...

What is a Hormone?

Hormones are tiny chemical messengers that help our body do different tasks. Hormones are made up of amino acids. Hormones are produced by the endocrine glands and then sent all over the body to stimulate certain activities. For example, Insulin is a well known hormone that helps our body digest food. Our growth, digestion, reproduction and sexual functions are all triggered by hormones.

What is Human Growth Hormone?

Human Growth Hormone (HGH or hGH) is the most abundant hormone produced by the pituitary gland (pituitary is one of the endocrine glands). The pituitary gland is located in the center of the brain. HGH is also a very complex hormone. It is made up of 191 amino acids - making it fairly large for a hormone. In fact, it is the largest protein created by the Pituitary gland.

HGH secretion reaches its peak in the body during adolescence. This makes sense because HGH helps stimulate our body to grow. But, HGH secretion does not stop after adolescence. Our body continues to produce HGH usually in short bursts during deep sleep.

Growth Hormone is known to be critical for tissue repair, muscle growth, healing, brain function, physical and mental health, bone strength, energy and metabolism. In short, it is very important to just about every aspect of our life!

What is Recombinant Growth Hormone (GH)?

Recombinant Growth Hormone is GH that is synthesized in the lab. It is a biosynthetic hormone that is identical to human growth hormone, but it is synthesized in the lab. Creating an exact replicate of HGH was not an easy task.

First scientist needed to isolate HGH. Once they achieved this step they could study the DNA make-up of the protein. Scientist quickly realized making recombinant GH would be no easy task since they had to accurately reproduce a 191 amino acid hormone.I wish I could say it was the quest to help mankind that lead to the invention of recombinant GH, but really it was money!

Pharmaceutical companies knew that there was big money to be made if they could create HGH in a test tube. Scientist from the major drug companies raced to produce the 191 amino acid hormone in a test tube. While Genentech first claimed victory in 1985, it was a short lived success. The recombinant GH they made was a 190 amino acid match - they were one amino acid off from HGH. This left the door open for Eli Lilly, who in 1986 created a 191 amino acid hormone that was an identical match to the HGH produced by the pituitary gland. The drug is called Humatrope and is the most widely used recombinant growth hormone today.

By: Sudha K

Medications For Hypothyroidism

2008-06-27T03:03:00.000-07:00

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough thyroid hormone. This results in reduced levels of thyroid hormone, dry skin, hair loss, hoarseness, fatigue and lethargy.

Medical treatment of hypothyroidism involves the administering of synthetic thyroid or desiccated thyroid hormone drugs. The basis of the treatment is thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Iodine is needed by the body to form the thyroid hormone and in case of hypothyroid patients it is seen that they have a deficiency of iodine. Acute and protracted iodine deficiency can also lead to cretinism or myxedema. The amino acid tyrosine, which is an essential part of the thyroid hormone, has been found deficient in people with hypothyroidism.

Medical practitioners often recommend a low dose of Thyroxine, about 1000mg to correct hypothyroidism. Synthetic thyroxine, levothyroxine is generally the prescribed medication for hypothyroidism because it is affordabl

e, produces fewer side effects, has homogeneous potency and is chemically stable.

The levels of thyroxine administered and the dosage given are based on many factors such as age, heart ailments. It is necessary to monitor that the patient continues to take the prescribed medication throughout. It should be continued even after the levels in blood get back to normal.

It has been observed that thyroid hormone replacement therapies, both natural and synthetic, efficiently reinstate thyroid hormone levels and can be used to treat hypothyroidism. Once a thyroid hormone replacement therapy has commenced, it is advisable not to change to another thyroid hormone replacement therapy, unless there is a specific requirement.

The aim of the treatment for hypothyroidism comprises restitution of normal thyroid hormone levels and respite from the symptoms such as fatigue and constipation. It also involves the treatment of metabolic abnormalities associated with the low thyroid hormone levels, such as decreased sugar and fat metabolism.

By Richard Romando

How To Make Your Own Rooting Hormone

2008-06-25T06:49:00.000-07:00

When starting a new plant from a leaf or stem cutting, thecutting will be more likely to form roots and create a newplant if a rooting hormone is used.

While commercial rooting hormone can be used there areorganic homemade versions that work as well.

To make rooting hormone soak the yellow-tipped shoots of aweeping willow tree in water. A tea made from the bark of awillow tree is also effective. When using the shoots orbark soak them for 24 hours prior to using.

Some people have found that using honey makes an effectiverooting hormone as well.

Leaf cuttings: Any plant with leaves such as AfricanViolet, Geranium etc. can be propagated with leaf cuttings.Using a sharp knife cut off a healthy leaf at the pointwhere it joins the stem. Insert the cut part, called apetiole, into the rooting hormone. Place the end into asmall container of light potting soil in which you have madea small hole with a pencil. Making a hole prior to plantingassures that the rooting hormone will not be brushed off thecutting when you plant it. Perlite, Vermiculite, and/orwater-soaked Sphagnum moss can be added to potting soil tomake the soil light. Make sure the leaf is leaning slightlyso that the new plants will have plenty of light and not beshaded by the leaf.

Stem cuttings: These are treated just like leaf cuttingsexcept you cut off a stem with several leaves instead ofjust one leaf. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving a few atthe top. Proceed as with the leaf cutting.

In both instances cover the pot with a plastic bag orinverted glass jar. This will keep moisture fromevaporating and keep the cutting from wilting. Keep in awarm location with diffused light but out of directsunlight. When there is indications of growth after about 3to 6 weeks, transplant the new emerging plant into a new potof potting soil. Continue to keep a humid environment forabout 2 more weeks until active growth begins.

By: Marilyn Pokorney

Aromatherapy Natural Hormone Treatment

2008-06-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Effective research and clinical evaluation has been done in Germany on the main chemical components found in Geranium oil. Clinical results were found for alcohol geraniol found in Geranium oil.

The results of these studies show successful treatment for autonomic nervous system imbalances.
The autonomic nervous system is known to stimulate our hormonal production and response.

Autonomic nervous system balance is an essential KEY for healthy functioning of the body, mind and emotions.

Manifestations of autonomic nervous system imbalance include common symptoms of headache, hot flashes, irregular heartbeat, nervousness, depression and anxiety.

"Vegetative dystony" is the term used to describe autonomic nervous system imbalance and its accompanying symptoms.

According to Dr. Andrew Weil medical vocabulary for imbalances of the autonomic nervous system practically do not exist in North American medicine.

However both Germany and Japan, two modern day industrial giants, acknowledge the condition and use the term "vegetative dystony."

Our modern day lifestyle promotes our living in a chronic condition of stress and subject to an increasing array of environmental toxins. These two conditions are cited as primary causes for autonomic nervous system imbalances and resulting hormonal disturbances.

There are many varieties of Geranium oil available. Geranium oils from Madagascar are by far the finest available and most researched for their therapeutic effect of balancing hormones.

The Bourbon variety of Geranium oil from Madagascar is considered by many to be the most desirable for hormonal balance.

Geranium Bourbon has an especially heady and sensual aroma that will energize your senses. The Geranium graveolens variety from Bourbon is my personal favorite geranium oil in a blend!

Considered the poor woman’s Rose Oil Rose Geranium (Pelargonium roseum) has a fresh, slightly rosy scent and is excellent as a stand alone oil. As with other Geranium oils from Madagascar Rose Geranium mixes well with many oils and its effects are similar.

Geranium oil is known to be useful in regulating physical, mental, and emotional imbalances.

Geranium oil has an especially calming and uplifting effect on the emotions. It is helpful for relieving depression, nervousness and fear.

Definitely a first-aid oil every woman should consider having on hand.

Geranium's tonifying action helps relieve nervous emotional conditions like anxiety, confusion, depression, lethargy, enegy swings and tearfulness.

Geranium oil gently balances extremes.

When you are feeling out of sync try Geranium oil to gently reconnect with yourself.

Geranium oil is an effective aid for re-establishing your body’s own natural rhythms.

Women have used Geranium successfully for years to relieve premenstrual conditions and to smoothly navigate the menopausal period.

Geranium has been used to treat an assortment of symptoms, including hormonal imbalances, premenstrual tension and a variety of menopausal conditions.

Geranium oil relieves congestion - especially of the breast tissue and improves circulation.

Excellent for stimulating and cleansing the lymphatic system Geranium oil promotes a healthy immune system.

Promotes detoxification and is helpful for overcoming addiction, constipation, indigestion, fluid retention.

May relieve phlebitis and inflamed hemorrhoids.

Geranium is excellent for ALL skin types! Its regulating properties make it useful for balancing too oily, dry or combination skin types.

Geranium oil soothes sensitive or irritated skin.

Useful for treating the following skin conditions: ringworm, acne, burns, bruises, shingles, herpes, eczema, dermatitis.

In Ayurvedic Medicine, an ancient system of healing practiced in India, the sweet and slightly spicy aroma of Geranium oil is ideal to regulate and pacify ALL the Doshas. Vata, Pitta and Kapha bodymind types respond well to the balancing effects of Geranium oil.

Symptoms of Vata imbalance are premenstrual syndrome, constipation, insomnia, restlessness, nervousness, anxiety and worry.

Symptoms of Pitta imbalance are high blood pressure, anger, frustration and emotional upsets, inability to go with the flow.

Symptoms of Kapha imbalance are high cholesterol, low metabolic forces, slow to lose weight, fluid retention, stagnation and blockage, lethargy and depression.

BLEND WITH: Clary Sage, Rose, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Lavender and Chamomile.

CAUTION: Geranium can lower blood sugar and should be avoided in cases of hypoglycemia. Due to its hormonal effect avoid Geranium during pregnancy.

PLEASE NOTE: There are many cheap, synthetic copies of aromatic oils, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results purchase the highest quality oils you can possibly find. Use certified organic essential oils, or oils that have been tested and are pesticide free.

Aromatherapy is a gentle and noninvasive complementary health care system used for balancing and synchronizing your body, mind, spirit and emotions to enhance your health. Properly administered essential oils are a natural, safe and effective way to enhance your health and well-being and may produce satisfying results where other methods have failed. Please consult with your physician regarding serious health concerns and do not attempt to self diagnose.

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA. PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic essential oils.

By KG Stiles

Anti Aging And Human Growth Hormone

2008-06-18T04:35:00.000-07:00

Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. The highest levels of HGH is produced during adolescence but between the ages of 21 and 30 the level of HGH being produced is markedly reduce by as much as 1.4 percent per year. By the age of 40 it can be down as much as 50 percent.

Dr. Daniel Rudman, M.D., of the Medical College Of Wisconsin conducted research on the effects of HGH in 1991. He concluded that HGH could reduce body fat, increase muscle tone, boost your energy level, reduce wrinkle, improve sleep, improve sex drive, improve the immune system, lower cholesterol levels, and improve memory.

There have been many research programs since then that have shown medical evidence that the decline of HGH is linked to many of the symptoms we associate with old age. Increased body fat, decreased energy, poor sex drive, decrease in muscle mass, poor functions of the immune system, loss of hair color, decreased skin elasticity, poor eyesight, loss of bone density, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and joint pain. Many believe that HGH can turn back the clock 10 to 20 years and that it is Cosmetic Surgery in a Bottle or the Fountain of Youth.

Growth hormone or GH has been used for years as a valid medical treatment for certain growth hormone deficiencies in children. The term HGH, or human growth hormone, is a very common name is now being seen in marketing campaigns for anti aging products.

Three organs in the human body mainly control the production of HGH. The pituitary gland in the brain, secrete the hormone into the blood stream. HGH travels to the liver, which is encouraged to product a hormone called Insulin-like Growth Factor. A majority of the beneficial effects of the HGH is actually due to the IGF acting on its target cells. The Insulin-like Growth Factor in the blood stream caused the pituitary to stop or reduce the output of HGH.

The Hypothalamic is also a gland in the brain that produces a peptide that stimulates the synthesis and the secretion of the HGH by the pituitary gland. The Hypothalamic gland functions as the main control center of the autonomic nervous system and it controls the hormonal secretions of the pituitary gland. Somatostatin is a peptide produced by the Hypothalamic gland the inhibits the release of HGH by the pituitary. Usually in response to low blood glucose levels.

The stomach secrets a hormone called Ghrelin and it potently stimulates the secretion of HGH. Ghrelin levels in the blood stream increase before meals and decrease after meals and is believed to be involved with feeling of hunger or satiation. If you eat a lot of small meals then the level of ghrelin in the blood stream is always low.

It is a violation of Federal Law to sell any product that contains natural HGH without a prescription. So what are you getting when you purchase a product that has HGH on the label? HGH releasers, HGH precursors, HGH secretagogues, contain nothing more than amino acid supplements and are just trying to capitalize on the popularity of HGH at highly inflated prices and they do not contain any Human Growth Hormone.

Growth hormone is currently approved and marketed for enhancing milk production in dairy cattle. Administration of bovine somatotropin to lactating cows results in increased milk yield. However, this treatment engenders abundant controversy among dairy farmers. Drinking milk from cattle treated with bovine growth hormone does not pose a risk to human health.

Another application of growth hormone in animal agriculture is treatment of growing pigs with porcine growth hormone. Such treatment has been demonstrated to significantly stimulate muscle growth and reduce deposition of fat.

Many products claim to have the ability to raise a person's levels of HGH naturally. These claims have not been proven scientifically. Anti aging HGH replacements should be taken seriously however, as they do have the potential to cause side effects.

The reported side effects of HGH include an increase in blood pressure, fluid retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetes, and joint pain. Although anti aging HGH seems to have some benefits, consumers must be wary to research the actual degree of the benefits and weigh that against the potential side effects.

If you just feel that you need vitamins, supplements or herbs to fight the aging process then find a good health care professional prior to starting any type of home treatment.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

By: David Cowley

What Is Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy?

2008-06-12T04:25:00.000-07:00

Our hormones maintain the chemical balance in the body. The menstrual cycle in women triggers the production of some important hormones like estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. When the ovaries stop functioning, whether due to age (menopause) or due to surgical removal, there is a cessation in the production of these vital hormones. Accompanying physiological changes include osteoporosis, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, insomnia, irregular periods, loss of libido, and possibly cancer. In women who have had their ovaries removed surgically, these changes are drastic and they experience a sudden drop in sex hormone levels. This can lead to severe health problems, especially in younger women. The aging process is not easy on men either. They start to lose energy, vigor, and stamina.

This is where Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) comes in. Through this treatment, the body is supplied enough hormones to make up for the lack of natural hormones. But, synthetic hormones are animal-derived hormone products. They come in a 'one-size-for-all' dose.

Synthetic Hormone Replacement Therapy is associated with a number of possible side effects and risks, which include:

-Increased risk of endometrial cancer
-Increased risk of breast cancer
-Increased risk of ovarian cancer
-Increased risk of Gallbladder disease
-Breast pain
-Nausea and fluid retention
-Increased moodiness

What is NHRT?

Due to the above-mentioned risks, synthetic HRT is now being replaced by Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy (NHRT) or 'bio-identical therapy.’ The term 'bio-identical' means the hormone used is structurally and chemically identical to the hormone produced by the human body. That is why it is called 'natural,’ as opposed to the synthetic hormone, which has a structure similar but not identical to the hormone produced by the body. Bio-identical hormones are produced from molecules of yam or soy, and undergo a series of chemical processes to make them similar to human hormones. Therefore the side effects and risks are greatly reduced while using NHRT.

In women, replacing the lost hormones can protect their cardiovascular health, prevent mental decline, and relieve menopausal symptoms. It helps to prevent loss of bone mass and occurrence of colon cancer, and may even delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Men experience an increase in mood, vigor, sexual function and muscle mass. Hormone replacement is powerful and must be monitored by an experienced practitioner.

Availability:

Some of these natural hormones are available in brand named products. But, it is easier to procure these hormones from compounding pharmacies. Pharmacies can supply the bio-identical hormones alone or combine them into a single dose. They can also offer these in the desired form whether it is a tablet, cream, or oil cap. In this way, you can individualize these hormones to fit your unique needs. Many times a physician who is not inclined to prescribing NHRTs may not be open to suggesting them to you. In that case, these pharmacists also have doctor referral information.

Nothing can replace what our bodies have been making naturally for many years. But NHRT comes as close to the real thing as possible. It is not a miracle cure. And often you have to go through some amount of trial and error such as dosage adjustments before you regain the hormonal balance. Most of the time, it will take between 3-6 months to see the results of therapy. Since the side effects are almost negligible and the benefits are huge, NHRTs are becoming a popular choice among men and women today.

By: Gray Rollins