Aside from the sexual benefits to both men and women, Horny Goat Weed has a number of benefits specific to women, specifically with regard to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause.
]]>Both men and women have erectile tissue that respond to the active ingredient in Horny Goat Weed called icariin, which increases circulation to sexual organs.
Aside from the sexual benefits to both men and women, Horny Goat Weed has a number of benefits specific to women, specifically with regard to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause.
PMS
What causes PMS? It arises when the body produces less estrogen prior to the start of menses/period. This results in a number of symptoms from abdominal pains to fatigue, mood swings, irritability, sleep problems and even depression.
Menopause
What causes menopause? It arises when the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, resulting in wide range of symptoms including bone loss, hot flashes, low libido, brain fog, insomnia, vaginal dryness, anxiety, night sweats and irritability.
Hormonal Balancing Role of Horny Goat Weed
Horny Goat Weed helps correct hormonal imbalances in women due to the phytoestrogenic nature of its prenylated flavonoids. This natural remedy comes without the side effects of hormone replacement therapy that some women are prescribed by their doctors.
Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention
Horny Goat Weed may promote bone formation by stimulating differentiation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Studies show that icariin was more effective at osteogenic differentiation and maturation of osteoblasts than other common flavonoid compounds. A controlled study including 85 postmenopausal women, after two years of study the group concluded that Horny Goat Weed appeared to help prevent bone loss and osteoporosis without any side effects.
In a further study conducted in 2018, the active ingredient in Horny Goat Weed was found to help slow the breakdown of cartilage in the joints that causes osteoarthritis.
In summary, Horny Goat Weed is integral to supporting bone health and balancing hormones in women whether in menopause or pre-menopause. Farmacy’s LOVE (Sexual and Reproductive Support) blend contains 200 mg of premium sourced Horny Goat Weed.
Stay tuned for upcoming blogs on issues important to you. Love, peace and blessings!
(Written by Ali N - Director of R & D at Farmacy For Life Inc.)
]]>With the introduction of our latest herbal blend, LOVE – Sexual & Reproductive Support, we wanted to share some of the science behind some of its key active ingredients to enlighten the Farmacy family as to how this blend will actually improve their lives.
Horny goat weed is one of the key herbs in LOVE and has been used in China for hundreds of years to treat low libido as well as a myriad of other conditions including heart health and symptoms of menopause. Also known by some of its other names such as yin yang huo, epimedium, barrenwort, rowdy lamb herb, randy beef grass, and brain tonic of the immortals, the active ingredient responsible for most of the benefits in this herb is called icariin. Medical studies have shown it may also help improve bone density, treat hypertension, brain injury, bronchitis, allergies, joint pain, numbness, and performance related fatigue.
Our focus in this blog will be on its functions as an aphrodisiac for men and our next blog will discuss its benefits for women.
Aphrodisiac for Men
When men are sexually stimulated, nitric oxide signals a chemical called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) that causes the smooth muscle to relax, resulting in an inflow of blood into the male reproductive organ that causes an erection.
In cases where men have trouble obtaining or sustaining erections, an enzyme called protein phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) interferes with the nitric oxide and cGMP that relaxes the smooth muscle in the arteries. As a result, the blood can’t move through the arteries and create an erection. This is quite common in men from time to time and when it happens consistently over a period of time it is usually diagnosed as erectile dysfunction (ED).
The active ingredient in horny goat weed, icariin, is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor and thus allows blood to fill the arteries and create an erection by removing the obstacle to proper blood flow. This process is similar to what Viagra does except it is 100% natural and can be taken regularly by most people without side effects.
A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine investigated its effects and found that low doses of horny goat weed showed improved erectile function in animals.
There have also been a number of human studies conducted in China that all came to the conclusion that horny goat weed significantly improves or cures erectile dysfunction.
Some people are tempted to take large amounts of horny goat weed at once to see immediate effects but this is not recommended. The best way to achieve results is to take it daily and assess its effects after at least one month. After that, it will continue to work in the background even if you skip a day or two. Since it is a natural herb, you can continue to take it regularly without side effects.
That said, consult a doctor before taking horny goat weed if you are already on heart medication, about to undergo surgery, are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also try avoiding over the counter pain medications while you are taking horny goat weed supplements.
Stay tuned for our upcoming blog discussing the benefits of horny goat weed for women. Love, peace and blessings!
- Written by Ali N (Director of Science and Research at Farmacy For Life Inc.)
]]>Vitamin B12 – Tell-Tale Signs of a B12 Deficiency
As discussed in our last blog, vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin and many are unknowingly deficient in this critical area, often misdiagnosed as having a folate deficiency. This week we are going to go over some of the tell-tale signs of a vitamin B12 deficiency.
First let’s do a recap on who is most prone to a having B12 deficiency:
Symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency can take years to show up and diagnosing it can be challenging. That’s why it is important to take note of the following symptoms associated with a vitamin B12 deficiency and ask your doctor to test for it right away if you are experiencing any of the following:
A B12 deficiency will cause your body to not make enough red blood cells resulting in less oxygen flow throughout the body which presents as general weakness and fatigue.
Low levels of B12 have been linked to mood and brain disorders like depression and dementia. Studies show that supplementing with vitamin B12 can reverse these symptoms.
A B12 deficiency can lead to anemia resulting in dizziness feeling short of breath often.
This can occur when an untreated B12 deficiency results in nervous system damage to the optic nerve that leads to your eyes. Although alarming, this is often reversible by supplementing with B12.
The nervous system damage caused by a B12 deficiency could change the way you walk and move around. Balance and coordination is also effected, making you more prone to slips and falls. It’s important to not always assume that old age is the reason you can’t move around the way you used to, it could just be a B12 deficiency which is fixable with supplementation.
Nerve damage resulting from a B12 deficiency can lead to the sensation of pins and needles.
An inflamed tongue that is red and swollen and can change the way you eat and speak is a symptom of B12 deficiency. Some people also experience mouth ulcers, feelings of pins and needles in the tongue or a burning and itching sensation in the mouth.
People with a B12 deficiency often have a pale or slight yellow look to the skin and whites of the eyes, a condition known as jaundice.
Having any of these symptoms does not confirm that you have a B12 deficiency but is a good reason to test for it.
It’s critical to stay on top of your health and if you or anyone you care for has a B12 deficiency or just want to be proactive about your health, Farmacy For Life’s BCD Blend is jam packed with vegan sourced B12.
Peace and blessings!
]]>Vitamin B12 is water soluble vitamin essential in red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function and the production of DNA. On other words, an essential vitamin without which we would not be able to function.
In food, vitamin B12 is found almost exclusively in meat, poultry, fish and dairy products, though it is often added to certain foods, like breakfast cereals for example.
Naturally then, vitamin B12 deficiency is most often found amongst people who eat less meat and dairy products generally and amongst vegans and vegetarians particularly. Older adults and people with digestive tract conditions like celiac, Crohn’s and IBS that affect the absorption of nutrients are also more likely to experience vitamin B12 deficiency.
Left unchecked, a vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a variety of symptoms such as anemia, fatigue, muscle weakness, intestinal problems, nerve damage and mood disturbances. Needless to say, vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin for everyone to supplement with, especially those that are at higher risk of deficiency or suffer from any of the above symptoms.
The recommended daily amount of vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 mcg, however, there is no defined upper limit of how much we should take. The human body typically only absorbs 1.3% of a 1000 mcg vitamin B12 dose, or 13 mcg and even less is absorbed in people with digestive tract conditions. For these reasons, even doses up to 1000x the daily recommended amount, or 2,400 mcg, are considered safe.
Farmacy For Life’s BCD blend contains 1000 mcg of vitamin B12 and is therefore both safe and ideal for people with vitamin B12 deficiency on a daily basis and beneficial on an occasional basis by those with even acceptable levels of vitamin B12.
Stay tuned for our upcoming blog discussing some of the most common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Peace and blessings!
]]>Black Seed Oil (Cold Pressed Oil):
Take 1-2 teaspoons daily preferably in the morning
Eliminates excess mucus, boosts immune system, improves brain function and fights off cold/flu/virus symptoms.
Black Seed Oil (Vegan Softgels)
Take 1-2 softgels daily preferably in the morning
Eliminates excess mucus, boosts immune system, improves brain function and fights off cold/flu/virus symptoms
Irish Sea Moss
Take 1-2 capsules daily preferably in the morning
Contains 92 out of 102 minerals your body needs for optimal function. Clears mucus, boosts energy levels, aids with thyroid health and balances hormones
Sea Moss + Bladderwrack
Take 1-2 capsules daily preferably in the morning
The bladderwrack helps cleanse the colon of fecal matter, waste and toxins. The Sea Moss then comes in and replaces the toxins with the minerals your body needs. Both of them combine for the ultimate detox and replenishment. This blend contains a lesser concentration of Sea Moss, but still has 92 out of 102 minerals your body needs for optimal function. Clears mucus, boosts energy levels, aids with thyroid health and balances hormones
Soursop
Take 1-3 capsules daily preferably in the evening
Oxygenates cells, promotes respiratory health, improves bone health. Acts as a mild sedative and contains anti-cancer properties
Oil of Oregano
1-3 drops (more, if you’re sick) under the tongue OR 4-6 drops in juice/water. Can be taken at any time of day
**Not to be taken for longer than 3 consecutive weeks**
Helps eliminate cold/flu symptoms, protects against general gut issues, nature's most potent natural anti-biotic
Sea Buckthorn
1-2 teaspoons daily anytime of day/evening. And/or 1-4 drops nightly onto a clean face
Promotes liver and kidney health, regulates blood pressure and cholesterol, helps relieve eczema. Extremely hydrating for the skin/face and helps with acne
Iron It Out
1-2 capsules daily preferably in the morning on an empty stomach
Potent source of plant based iron, contains anti-cancer properties, promotes liver and kidney health, great for digestive health. Boosts energy and mental focus
BCD tablets
1 tablet daily anytime of day
Improves mental health and focus, boosts energy, protects and improves immunity, supports bone health
Gut Instincts
1-2 capsules anytime of day, preferably 1 hour before a meal
Soothes digestive lining, helps reduce acid reflux/heartburn, regulates bowel movements, mood and immune booster. Helps with IBD/IBS such as Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis
Cellular Hair Food
Apply as a mask weekly (or as needed) for 30mins - 1hr.
Helps with hair loss, dandruff, & helps strengthen hair follicles.
Prickly Pear Seed Oil
1-3 drops daily applied to a clean face
Helps restore elasticity to the face, provides a glow & fights against acne breakouts.
Healing Salve
Apply whenever necessary to areas of the body that need relaxation or are in mild-medium pain
Helps with mild inflammation/ joint aches. May help with eczema
Elderberry + Zinc
1-2 capsules preferably in the evening
Improves brain function and memory, reduces cold + flu symptoms, protects skin and may treat acne, boosts libido and fertility, strengthens the immune system.
TIPS FOR BETTER RESULTS
Only take the Sea Moss capsules once the Sea Moss + Bladderwrack bottle is finished. This just allows your body to absorb the nutrients better after the Sea Moss + Bladderwrack gives your body an initial detox
We suggest to use the 3:2 rule for the Oil of Oregano. For every 3 weeks you take the oil, take a 2 week break to give your body a break and not overwork it
They say you are what you eat, but in fact you are only what you assimilate and absorb. The digestive system is comprised of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, small and large intestine.
Also known as the gut or gastro intestinal tract, this system is one of the most important systems in our bodies because it is responsible for our overall health and well-being. 80% of our immune system is located in the gut and its health directly influences all other ailments that may pop up in the body.
Our gut has an “inner ecosystem”, also known as the microbiome, which is a blend of good and bad bacteria that coats our intestinal lining. A healthy balance of the two allows for proper absorption of nutrients, regular bowel movements, mucous regulation, energy, and our ability to ward off disease. If this ecosystem is thrown off balance, we then begin to see physical symptoms manifest itself.
General Causes of Imbalance
Malnutrition, high sugar diet, high acidic diet, high fat and low fiber diet, alcohol, smoking, recreational drugs, pharmaceutical drugs, food allergies/sensitivities, chronic stress and anxiety.
Common Digestive Disorders
Hiatus hernia, GERD, Indigestion, Gastritis, Hyperchlorhydria, Ulcers, Pancreatitis, Constipation, Celiac disease, Gas, Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Dysbiosis, Candida, Hemorrhoids, Polyps, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Hepatitis, Fatty Liver, Liver Disease.
General Recommendations for Digestive Support
Supplement |
Role |
B complex |
Maintains healthy muscle tone, hydrochloric acid production, supports mucous membrane, bile secretion, converts fat into energy |
Ginger |
Assists with indigestion, gas, upset stomach and bowel movements |
L- Glutamine |
Helps to heal mucus membranes and intestinal lining; great for Ulcers, GERD, Chron’s, Colitis and Heartburn. |
Slippery Elm Bark |
Coats Intestinal lining – Great for temporary relief of Ulcers, GERD and Heartburn (a natural alternative to an antacid) |
Probiotics |
Balances gut flora, helps boost immunity and regulates bowel movements. Replaces flora when lost through administration of pharmaceutical drugs. |
Bioflavonoids |
Stimulates bile production which is involved in the breaking down of fats. |
PABA |
Maintains healthy intestinal flora |
FFL Elderberry Syrup |
Potent antioxidant blend that nourishes cells, promotes healthy digestion, balances blood sugar and boosts immunity. |
FFL Black Seed Oil |
Immune booster, reduces excess phlegm and inflammation |
FFL Digest |
A blend of glutamine and herbs to help combat indigestion and heal the intestinal lining. |
Fiber |
Regulates bowel movements, balances blood sugar and assists with detoxification. |
General Emotional Causes
Everything that is physical has an energetic counterpart. In other words, for every disease or ailment, there is a long-standing emotion or mental pattern attached to it. Thoughts and emotions have a direct influence on our physical health. Whether it be positive or negative, we can either strengthen or weaken our vital force with the way we think. In this section, we will take a generalized look at the Digestive system and how its imbalance relates to our emotional health.
The process of digestion includes assimilation, breaking down of the food, absorption of nutrients then lastly, excretion of toxins. It’s a smooth process that is controlled by internal mechanisms. We cannot voluntarily reverse this process nor can we control what happens to our food once it has been eaten.
This system is related to “digesting” and embracing the experiences of life with grace and ease.
One of my favorite quotes is, “If nothing moves you, life will”. This means that no matter how stuck we feel, what we try to resist, control or avoid, the journey of our lives will always move forward, in a constant motion, just like our digestive system. The only thing we can control are our own thoughts and actions, just as we can control what we eat. When we focus more on ourselves and what we have the power to change, we begin to see change around us. This is called the law of vibration.
What situation or person are you trying to control? What is causing you worry and tension? Are you feeling stuck and going against the grain of life? Do you judge and criticize, refusing to accept outside of your norm? Are you reliving your past, afraid to move forward?
If so, then in order to flow, you must let go of that which you cannot control or change.
Affirmations
I experience life and its lessons with grace and ease.
I release the need to control, all is in divine alignment.
My power lies in my choices and I choose to live in the present moment.
General Summary
Take a deep breath in…Now, Exhale.
The simple breath, the breath of life, is an involuntary function we can sometimes take for granted. The respiratory system consists of two acts, inspiration or breathing in, and expiration or breathing out. This is all done with the help of the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs. Gas exchange occurs when oxygen is taken in through the capillaries (tiny blood vessels) to the lungs and into the bloodstream. Carbon dioxide is then eliminated from the bloodstream, to the lungs and out of the body through the capillaries, hence the exchange of gases. Oxygen is vital as it alkalizes, energizes and supports the life and quality of our cells.
Although we can breathe in through the mouth, the nose is the most beneficial method for inhalation. The sinuses help to moisten and warm the air taken in and most importantly, acts like a filter as the air passes through the hairs. In order for this system to be at its best, the airways need to be free from inflammation, mucus and swelling.
General Causes of Imbalance
Smoking, food allergies, maldigestion, malabsorption, stress, low adrenal function, excessive intake of mucus forming foods like sugar and dairy.
Common Respiratory Conditions
Asthma, allergies, hay fever, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, common cold, pneumonia, lung disease, lung cancer
General Recommendations for Respiratory System
Supplement |
Role |
Vitamin A |
Protection of respiratory mucus membranes |
Vitamin B Complex |
Vital for energy production |
Vitamin C |
Stabilizes the membrane of mast cells, thus rendering it useful in allergies and asthma |
FFL Irish Sea Moss & Black Seed oil |
Expels mucus from the respiratory tract. |
Quercetin |
Stabilizes the membrane of mast cells; indicated for prevention and treatment of asthma |
Coenzyme Q10 |
Increases cellular oxygen |
Cysteine |
Helps break down excess mucus, thus used in respiratory tract conditions |
General Emotional Causes
Everything that is physical has an energetic counterpart. In other words, for every disease or ailment, there is a long-standing emotion or mental pattern attached to it. Thoughts and emotions have a direct influence on our physical health. Whether it be positive or negative, we can either strengthen or weaken our vital force with the way we think. In this section, we will take a generalized look at the Integumentary system and how its imbalance relates to our emotional health.
Without the breath, life would cease to exist. The funny thing is, we don’t usually acknowledge our breathing until it begins to feel abnormal. Maybe a little cough, excess mucus causing constriction, shortness of breath or even wheezing. All of these symptoms, cause us to feel stifled, limited and even scared, depending on its severity. This act of constriction is related to feeling constricted in your own personal life, being violated with no space to “breathe”. This could be due to, chronic stress, a chaotic environment or even a family crisis. Symptoms of this nature are also related to taking on more than you can handle in life. It’s easy to inhale (take on the task), but nearly impossible to exhale (execute the task) because you are overwhelmed and refuse to admit your limitations. Wanting to seem invincible in others eyes, you may feel like a caged lion who ignores the constraints of the cage for the sake of appearing strong and at ease.
As you breathe in life, you are literally breathing – in - life. Ask yourself, am I able to live my life with ease? Do I feel like I am under someone else’s control? Am I in an environment where I am supported and can be myself? Do I feel like life is getting the best of me? If so, what am I doing about it? Am I surrounded by chaos, drama and sadness? Do I suppress the tears of my childhood traumas? If so, will I allow myself to heal?
All these questions will help assist you in finding the emotional causation that is triggering your respiratory system. In the meantime, begin to adjust your inner self talk with the following affirmations.
Affirmation
I take charge of my own life, I am free
I lovingly live life to the fullest
I choose to protect my peace
I am healed, whole and worthy of my life.
Written by: Trisha Smith (Sakred Synergy) @SakredSynergy
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