HEALTH REPORT
Top herbs for health
D iscover why you natural medicine cabinet. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) This herb has been revered in Ayurvedic medicine for over 4,000 years. It has an adaptogenic action in the body, acting as both a calmative and a restorative, and so helping to ease stress and exhaustion. should stock these six health stars in your
and bleeding disorders, thanks to their high vitamin C content. Modern science confirms that cranberry inhibits the adhesion of harmful micro-organisms to cells lining the urinary tract, making it a less welcoming environment for bacteria like E. coli which cause UTIs. Go Vita loves: NutriVital Bio-Fermented Organic Cranberry Liquid , made from natural ingredients to support the body’s immune system and aid digestive health. Try adding it to natural mineral water for a tangy, delicious drink. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) One of milk thistle’s key active ingredients is silymarin, and a large body of modern research proves its value for treating liver-related disorders, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis and damage from excessive alcohol; it may also be of benefit in treating and preventing gallstones and clearing psoriasis, as well as generally protecting the liver from toxins, such as drugs, environmental poisons and chemicals. Milk thistle is a potent antioxidant as well, even more effective than vitamin C, and
helps to prevent damage from free radicals and boost production of new liver cells. Milk thistle is also beneficial for maintaining your skin health due to it antioxidant benefits – a good supplement to help keep your skin
clear of acne and age spots. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage has a long history of use in herbal remedies, with proposed benefits ranging from anti-inflammatory effects through to easing symptoms of menopause. More recently, awareness has been growing of the benefits that plants of the Salvia genus can have on cognitive health and cognitive performance, with multiple clinical studies showing significant benefits in this area. Given the clear negative effects of inflammation on cognitive health and performance, the anti-inflammatory effects of sage no doubt contribute towards the cognitive enhancement that sage can offer. However, given near immediate effects that have been observed for the herb – multiple human studies have now shown significant improvement to cognitive performance within hours of a single dose – it seems likely that other mechanisms are also at play. Research by Sibelius ™ Sage continues to investigate the effects of sage on neurotransmitters.
It is particularly helpful for anxiety, nervous
debility and to support convalescence, as it also supports immune function and leads to improved stamina. The particular KSM-66 ® Ashwagandha rawmaterial is a certified organic and clinically proven form and considered the gold standard of ashwagandhas.
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) These bright, tangy berries have been regarded as an effective cure for urinary tract infections (UTIs) for centuries, as well as being used to treat wounds, scurvy
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ISSUE 62 • 2021
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