Jump to:

Female Super Pack
A Daily Pack of Six Pills for Women's Health

      

SPECIAL OFFER!

RECEIVE A FREE PRODUCT
WITH EACH ORDER

(We will send you a free product every time you place an order.)

Have a Healthy & Prosperous Year!

 

Quality Assurance: This product is manufactured in the United States by one of America's leading laboratories in business since 1955. It is produced from natural sources and contains no yeast, sugar, starch, artificial flavor, dyes, coloring agent or preservatives.

 

 

Female Super Pack provides a multivitamin & herbal support system in six pills designed to promote overall good health.  Supplementing this nutrient base is a blend of herbs proven to combat the symptoms of menopause, slow the aging process, and support optimal cognitive function and metabolism.

 

 

Click for INGREDIENTS LIST

The six multivitamin and herbal support pills contain:

ROYAL JELLY is acquired from bee hives.  Bee larvae are fed largely on royal jelly alone, which contains a diverse group of nutrients, including vitamin C, a complex of B vitamins, proteins, sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and other trace minerals.  One protein found only in royal jelly, called royalsin, has anti-biotic properties.  The fatty acids in royal jelly are also thought to be anti-microbial. Neopterin is a vitamin found in royal jelly which may benefit the immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies.

Royal jelly also contains phytosterols, plant cholesterols which compete with LDL cholesterol in the liver.  By lowering the uptake of “bad” cholesterol in the liver, phytosterols may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels in humans.  One group analyzed the body of research performed on royal jelly and found that overall, studies which report the benefits of royal jelly for lowering cholesterol have been well-designed and accurate.  Healthy cholesterol levels are essential for reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke, as excess cholesterol can cause deadly arterial blockages. 

Traditionally, royal jelly has been used with bee pollen to combat the symptoms of menopause and as an anti-aging substance.  The symptoms of menopause are caused by changes in the female body’s secretion of hormones, in particular of estrogen and progesterone.  Studies have examined the estrogenic effects of royal jelly and found that it may mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, but since it is not a hormone, it does not cause the unwanted side effects often associated with hormone therapies.

Because royal jelly contains a diverse group of nutrients, it can help the body maintain optimal health and slow degenerative processes.  Collagen, the main component of skin, benefits from the proteins and vitamins found in royal jelly.  Royal jelly is a natural product as well, meaning that it does not come with any dangerous side effects.  By promoting healthy skin, providing large amounts of basic nutrients, and contributing to overall good health, royal jelly helps the body take care of itself, slowing the process of aging.

 

For more information visit: www.aboutroyaljelly.com

CHOLINE provides several benefits to good health.  First, choline is part of a group of vitamins found to reduce homocysteine levels.  Homocysteine is a toxic substance related to the buildup of cholesterol.  Doctors believe that high levels of homocysteine lead to an increased risk of heart attack.  By reducing homocysteine levels, choline may promote healthy cholesterol levels.

Choline is also a precursor to acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter associated with memory and intelligence.  As the body ages, cognitive function declines, leading to dementia and possibly even serious illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease.  Choline helps supply the body with adequate amounts of acetylcholine, promoting optimal cognitive function.

Finally, choline plays a role in fat metabolism.  Choline supplements may increase the body’s ability to metabolize fats during digestion, decreasing fat buildup and contributing to weight control.

Pregnancy may deplete the body’s store of many important nutrients, including choline.  Therefore, it is vitally important that nutrient levels are restored in women who have given birth.  The Linus Pauling Institute has suggested that there may be a link between choline and cancer risk.  In animal studies it was found that choline deficiency led to an increased risk of liver cancer.

INOSITOL is a serotonin regulator.  Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter associated with mood, anxiety, depression, and many other psychological disorders.  The brain must maintain a proper balance of serotonin in order to function, and inositol may help the body accomplish this.  Inositol supplements have been found to relieve some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

RUTIN is a nutrient found in plants.  It plays a role in detoxification processes in the body, where it binds to and flushes out toxic iron ions.  It is also a potent antioxidant which defends against free radical damage and reduces the risk of cancer.  Rutin also reduces the symptoms of haemophilia by strengthening the capillaries.  Finally, rutin may also reduce the toxicity of oxidized LDL cholesterol, which may lower the risk of heart disease.

BIOFLAVONOIDS are part of a group of nutrients called polyphenols.  They are powerful antioxidants which help fight aging.  In addition, they have shown anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic effects.  Hesperidin, rutin, and quercetin are all citrus bioflavonoids.  Research suggests that citrus bioflavonoids may be helpful in alleviating the symptoms of hemorrhoids, in lowering cholesterol, in reducing allergic reactions, and in lowering high blood pressure.

DESICCATED LIVER supplements are primarily used as a natural source of iron.  Supplementing with iron itself or synthetic iron can be dangerous, but natural sources like desiccated liver are safe to take.  Iron is needed by the blood to form hemoglobin, the substance which carries oxygen through the blood stream.  A healthy iron count means healthy blood which can deliver oxygen to the muscles and tissues which need it.  Desiccated liver is also rich in B vitamins.

PABA, or para aminobenzoic acid, is a non-essential nutrient which is vital to some intestinal bacteria.  Some reports find that PABA can return color to gray hair and stop hair loss, especially in older adults.  It is also used as a sunscreen.  PABA has been researched for its ability to reverse the effects of some connective tissue disorders.  PABA promotes healthy skin, essential to combating the aging process.

BONE MARROW is rich in protein and monosaturated fats which help lower LDL cholesterol. 

Nutritional YEAST is rich in proteins and B vitamins while low in fat and sodium.  Yeast supplements may also restore to the digestive system some of the bacteria which are necessary for proper metabolism and immune system function.  Vegetarians often use yeast supplements to ensure that they are receiving all the necessary vitamins in their diet.  Because the nutrients in yeast are organic, they are more easily used by the body than nutrients that have been processed and appear on their own.

LECITHIN, a source of phosphatidylcholine, provides for healthy cell membranes.  With age, phosphatidylcholine levels in brain cell membranes decline, possibly contributing to memory loss, according to Dr. Ray Sahelian, M.D.  One study tested lecithin as a possible treatment for Parkinson’s disease.  Phosphatidylcholine is also the mechanism by which choline is delivered to the body.  Choline needs lecithin to function properly. 

Phosphatidylcholine is also hepatoprotective, meaning it can help protect the liver from damage.  A healthy liver is important for the body to be able to flush out harmful toxins.  Alcohol and drugs can cause liver damage, as well as disease. 

WHEAT GERM OIL is a plentiful source of the powerful nutrients, including beta sitosterol.  Beta-sitosterol works by competing with cholesterol for absorption in the liver.  Beta-sitosterol is absorbed before cholesterol, thus lowering cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. 

According to Roger Mason’s Book, “If there was only one supplement you could take to normalize your cholesterol it should be Beta-sitosterol taken in approximately 300 mg doses every day.”  Beta-sitosterol is the most studied, most proven, most effective single way I’ve found to lower total and LDL cholesterol”.  

One promising study even found that beta sitosterol was able to control the growth of breast cancer cells that responded to estrogen (see below).

Wheat germ also contains many other basic nutritional components.  It is a particularly rich source of folic acid, a B vitamin recommended to women of child-bearing age to prevent birth defects.  Folic acid, like choline, can help lower homocysteine levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and other serious illnesses. 

SIBERIAN GINSENG is an anti-inflammatory substance as well as a powerful anti-oxidant.  In herbal medicine it is classified as an adaptogen, a substance which helps the body return to and maintain a healthy, neutral state.  Siberian Ginseng may provide benefits to memory and alertness.  In addition, it has been shown to boost the immune system.  Its benefit for weight management is that it promotes the health of cell membranes, allowing nutrients to penetrate cell walls more easily.  Siberian ginseng may also promote mental health in the elderly.

Also included is GLYCINE,  a nonessential amino acid present in high quantities in collagen.  It is also a unique antioxidant.  Supplemental glycine has been shown to support mood and behavior, as well as provide anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory support.

Female super pack contains a proprietary blend of herbs which includes watercress, parsley, sea kelp, rose hips, and alfalfa.  WATERCRESS is an amazingly nutritious herb which contains high amounts of iron, calcium, vitamins E and A and C, folic acid, and it is low in calories and carbohydrates.  The phytochemicals present in watercress may help alleviate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and boost the immune system in the elderly.

PARSLEY is ordinarily used as a diuretic and for digestive support.  Another traditional use for parsley is for bad breath.

SEA KELP promotes the health of the skin and hair.  It is often included in shampoo and conditioner formulas.  Its high concentration of vitamin A promotes the health of collagen by acting as an antioxidant in connective tissues.  And its abundance of amino acids and proteins provides the necessary nutrients to build healthy skin, hair, and nails.  In addition, its high fiber content can contribute to detoxification of the digestive tract.

ROSE HIPS are one of the richest plant sources of vitamin C.  It also contains vitamins A, D, and E, as well as essential fatty acids and flavonoid antioxidants.  Like sea kelp, rose hips are considered to be good for the skin.

ALFALFA is believed to support lactation.  It is rich in protein, vitamin E, and vitamin K.  It also contains eight essential amino acids.  In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to treat kidney stones and to relieve fluid retention and swelling. 

The proprietary GLANDULAR BLEND is designed to promote the proper balance of hormones and nutrients throughout the body.  Proper hormonal balance can promote a healthy metabolism, prevent the degenerative effects of aging, and improve cognitive function.

Also included in Female Super Pack is a B complex supplement pill with magnesium:

 

As co-enzymes, the B vitamins are essential components in most major metabolic reactions. They play an important role in energy production, including the metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins. B vitamins are also important for blood cells, hormones, and nervous system function. As water-soluble substances, B vitamins are not generally stored in the body in any appreciable amounts (with the exception of vitamin B-12). Therefore, the body needs an adequate supply of B vitamins on a daily basis.

Vitamin B1, also called THIAMIN, may be used to improve cognitive function.  In one study, young women reported an increase in composure, clearness, and energy.  The body is unable to produce B1 on its own, so dietary and supplemental intake is necessary.  B1 is called a cofactor, an essential nutrient required for a wide range of functions throughout the body.  Thiamin can help maintain optimal mental health in conditions of stress.

RIBOFLAVIN, Vitamin B2, is required for the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates to make energy.  Deficiency in riboflavin is easy to acquire because it is constantly secreted in the urine.  Symptoms include dry mouth and lips, inflammation of the tongue, sore throat, cracked skin, and bloodshot, itchy eyes.  Combined with other supplements, riboflavin may be used to treat migraine headaches.  Riboflavin also destroys many viruses and bacteria by attaching itself to DNA and RNA and, when exposed to light, breaking the acids apart.  Riboflavin contributes to stress reduction by increasing the body’s ability to use energy efficiently and by assisting in the metabolism of the body’s main sources of energy.

Vitamin B3, NIACIN, can be formed in the brain by the amino acid tryptophan.  However, this reduces tryptophan levels, and tryptophan is also used to make 5-HTP which affects serotonin levels.  When tryptophan is broken down to make niacin, 5-HTP and serotonin levels will be lowered as a consequence.  Supplementing with vitamin B3 can prevent this process by freeing up more tryptophan for 5-HTP production and serotonin regulation.

VITAMIN B6, or pyridoxine, helps reduce homocysteine levels.  Homocysteine is an amino acid that becomes toxic at high levels.  Homocysteine allows blood platelets to clot more easily, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke due to artery clogging.  Some studies suggest that lower homocysteine levels may reduce anxiety and depression.  In addition, vitamin B6 may have positive effects on the neurotransmitters serotonin and GABA.

Folic acid, VITAMIN B9, has many benefits to overall good health.  The National Institutes of Health summarizes folic acid’s uses in the body: “It helps the body digest and utilize proteins and to synthesize new proteins when they are needed; it's essential for the production of red blood cells and the synthesis of DNA; it helps with tissue growth and cell function; it helps to increase appetite when needed; and it stimulates the formation of digestive acids.” 

Under conditions of stress, the body breaks down important proteins to make glucose in order to satisfy higher energy requirements.  B9 may help the body protect these proteins, and when combined with other vitamins which improve the body’s efficient use of energy, may help maintain optimal health during stress.

Folic acid can also reduce homocysteine levels.  High levels of homocysteine have been linked to an increased risk for heart attack, stroke, and even Alzheimer’s disease.   As the body ages, cognitive function declines and can result in dementia.  In a recently published Dutch study, older men who supplemented their diet with 800 micrograms of folic acid per day experienced improved cognitive function. 

MAGNESIUM allows the body to store potassium which would otherwise be excreted in the urine.  This is especially important to patients with high blood pressure, who are given diuretics as part of the initial treatment.  Patients with hypertension often show magnesium depletion as well.  Magnesium is used in treatments for congestive heart failure, angina, cardiac arrhythmias, and cardiovascular disease (National Institutes of Health – Office of Dietary Supplements).
 
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that “the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure recommends adequate amounts of potassium in the diet, along with other measures such as dietary calcium and weight loss, to prevent the development of high blood pressure. Similarly, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet emphasizes eating foods rich in fruits, vegetables, and low- or non-fat dairy products to provide high intake of potassium, as well as magnesium and calcium.”

 

Female Super Pack contains a Vitamin E supplement pill. 

VITAMIN E is one of the body’s most important antioxidant nutrients, protecting healthy cells from free radical damage. Vitamin E may help prevent the oxidation of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol by free radicals.  This is one explanation for vitamin E’s protective benefits against coronary heart disease, according to the National Institutes of Health.  Other studies have shown that vitamin E supplements may play a role in reducing the risk of prostate and breast cancers.  Vitamin E may help reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing the buildup of plaque from waxy cholesterol deposits and by thinning the blood to allow it to move more freely through arteries.

Researchers now believe that Alzheimer’s disease may be caused by oxidative stress in the brain.  Since Vitamin E is an antioxidant and easily enters the brain, vitamin E may be able to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

 

The following ingredients are contained in the enzyme tablet to support an optimal metabolism:

BETAINE may reduce homocysteine levels.  In addition, betaine can protect the liver from dangerous buildups of fatty acids that can be caused by alcohol, obesity, a poor diet, and diabetes, among other causes.  It also may increase the amount of stomach acids in the gut, promoting digestion.

PANCREATIN contains proteases, amylase, and lipase.  Proteases stimulate enzymes in the digestive system, an overall assistance to the process of metabolism.  Amylase aids specifically in the digestion of starch by breaking starch down into two smaller sugars, more easily utilized by the body.  Lipase is vital to the digestive system because it breaks down harmful fats that otherwise could cause high cholesterol in the blood stream.

PEPSIN is the enzyme in the stomach which digests proteins.  Aspergillus Oryzae is a source of amylase.  Amylase and lipase are also digestive enzymes. Supplemental enzymes also provide some anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties.  Ox bile extract provides the best source of supplemental bile, the substance in the digestive system that metabolizes fats.  Fat metabolism is important not only for weight control, but also for the absorption of fat soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.  Fat solubility gives a substance the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, an important ability for providing the brain with beneficial nutrients.

Rennin is chemically similar to pepsin.  It is a protease enzyme which is responsible for the curdling of milk.

Malt diastase is a digestive enzyme which works with amylase to digest carbohydrates, especially those from grain.

PAPAIN is a well-known substance which helps the body digest tough meat fibers.  It has been used traditionally for thousands of years in South America, and its value as a meat tenderizer is well known in the meat market.  Papain is also used to treat jellyfish, bee, and wasp stings because it is able to break down protein toxins in the venom of these creatures.

BEET POWDER is an ancient herb whose main nutrient is betaine.  Betaine helps the liver digest fat and prevents the buildup of LDL, or “bad”, cholesterol.  It is also a powerful antioxidant.

CITRUS PECTIN exhibits some cholesterol-lowering effects, and it is also a remedy for diarrhea and constipation.

 

View Related Products

 

 

Return to top of page

ROYAL JELLY

PDRHealth.com:

TRADE NAMES
Royal Jelly is available from numerous manufacturers generically. It is also available in combination products. Branded products include Premium Royal Jelly (American Health).

DESCRIPTION
Royal jelly, also known as gelee royale and RJ, is the milky-white gelatinous substance secreted from the cephalic glands of nurse worker bees (Apis mellifera) for apparently the sole purpose of stimulating the growth and development of the queen bee. Without royal jelly, the queen bee would be no different from the worker bees and would live about as long (seven to eight weeks). With royal jelly, the queen bee can live five to seven years. This fact explains the popular belief that royal jelly has rejuvenating qualities.

Royal jelly, however, has not lived up to expectations that it is an important anti-aging substance. But it is not without medical interest. Royal jelly consists of an emulsion of proteins, sugars, lipids and some other substances in a water base. Proteins make up about 13% of royal jelly. Most of the proteins comprise a family called major royal jelly proteins. One protein in royal jelly called royalsin possesses antibiotic properties against gram-positive, but not gram-negative, bacteria. About 11% of royal jelly is made up of sugars, such as fructose and glucose, similar to those found in honey. Lipids comprise about 5% of the substance and consist mainly of medium-chain hydroxy fatty acids, such as trans-10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid, which is also thought to possess antimicrobial properties.

Royal jelly also contains vitamins, such as pantothenic acid, minerals and phytosterols. Neopterin, or 2-amino-6- (1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)-4 (3H)-pteridinone, was initially isolated from royal jelly. Neopterin is also found in humans, and, although its precise role is not known, it appears to play an important role in the human immune system.

Melbrosia, a mixture of royal jelly and bee pollen, is sometimes used by menopausal women to manage climacteric symptoms.

ACTIONS AND PHARMACOLOGY

ACTIONS
Royal jelly may have hypolipidemic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities.

MECHANISM OF ACTION
The mechanism of actions of royal jelly is not known. The possible antibacterial activity of some royal jelly proteins, while of interest for topical use, is unlikely to be expressed when ingested.

PHARMACOKINETICS
There are no reported pharmacokinetic studies of royal jelly. Proteins, carbohydrates and lipids in royal jelly should be digested, absorbed and metabolized in the same way that other such substances found in food are digested, absorbed and metabolized.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Royal jelly may have favorable lipid effects, including cholesterol-lowering effects. There is very preliminary evidence that it may have some antibiotic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing and anti-cancer effects.

RESEARCH SUMMARY
A meta-analysis of royal jelly's reported effects on serum lipids in experimental animals and in humans found significant, positive results. The substance significantly decreased serum and liver total lipids and cholesterol in rats and mice, and retarded the formation of atheromas in the aortas of rabbits fed hyperlipidemic diets. Meta-analysis of controlled human studies also showed significant reduction in total serum lipids and cholesterol, and, in those with hyperlipidemia, it normalized HDL- and LDL-cholesterol determined from decreases in beta/alpha lipoproteins. The author of this meta-analysis concluded: "The best available evidence suggests that royal jelly, at approximately 50 to 100 milligrams per day, decreased total serum cholesterol levels by about 14% and total serum lipids by about 10% in the group of patients studied."

One group of researchers has reported that a royal jelly extract has potent antibiotic effects against gram-positive bacteria, but not against gram-negative bacteria. Royal jelly has exhibited immunomodulating effects in an animal model, stimulating antibody production and immunocompetent cell proliferation.

It has been claimed, anecdotally, for some time that royal jelly has anti-inflammatory effects and wound-healing properties. These claims were given preliminary support in a study of streptozotocin-diabetic rats. The researchers were looking for a hypoglycemic effect from royal jelly; none was found, but the researchers noted that royal jelly showed some anti-inflammatory activity and that it shortened healing time in desquamated skin lesions.

There have been scattered repots that royal jelly and its constituent 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid might have anti-cancer effects. There was one report that both provided complete protection against transplantable mouse leukemia. Tumor growth inhibition of other cancers has been associated with royal jelly supplementation in other animal models. More research is needed.

CONTRAINDICATIONS, PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS

CONTRAINDICATIONS
Royal jelly is contraindicated in those allergic or hypersensitive to any of its components.

PRECAUTIONS
Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid using royal jelly supplements.

ADVERSE REACTIONS
Adverse reactions have included eczema, rhinitis, urticaria and bronchospasm. There is one report of a woman developing hemorrhagic colitis following use of royal jelly for approximately one month. Acute asthma, anaphylaxis and, in one case, death secondary to royal jelly-induced asthma have also been reported.

OVERDOSAGE
No reported overdosage of royal jelly.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Those who use royal jelly take 50 to 100 milligrams daily. Royal jelly is also available in cosmetic formulations. Those who are allergic or hypersensitive to royal jelly may develop dermatitis conditions from topical use.


LITERATURE
Bullock RJ, Rohan A, Straatmans JA. Fatal royal jelly-induced asthma. Med J Aust. 1999; 160:44.

Fujii A, Kobayashi S, Kuboyama N. Augmentation of wound healing by royal jelly (RJ) in streptozoticin-diabetic rats. Jpn J Pharmacol. 1990; 53:331-337.

Fujiwara S, Imai J, Fujiwara M, et al. A potent antibacterial protein in royal jelly. Purification and determination of the primary structure of royalisin. J Biol Chem. 1990; 265:11333-11337.

Gene M, Aslan A. Determination of trans-10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid content in pure royal jelly products by column liquid chromatography. J Chromatogr. 1999; 839:265-268.

Hamerlinck FF. Neopterin: a review. Exp Dermatol. 1999; 8:167-176.

Harwood M, Harding S, Beasley R, Frankish PD. Asthma following royal jelly. N Z Med J. 1996; 109:325..

Ishiwata H, Takeda Y, Yamada T, et al. Determination and confirmation of methyl p-hydroxybenzoate in royal jelly and other foods produced by the honey bee. Food Addit Contam, 1999; 12:281-285.

Leung R, Ho A, Chan J, et al. Royal jelly consumption and hypersensitivity in the community. Clin Exp Allergy. 1997; 27:333-336.

Orsolic SL, Tadic Z, Njari B, et al. A royal jelly as a new potential immunomodulator in rats and mice. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis. 1996; 19:31-38.

Shen X, Lu R, He G. [Effects of lyophilized royal jelly on experimental hyperlipidemia and thrombosis.] [Article in Chinese.] Chung Hua Yu Fang I Hsueh Tsa Chih. 1995; 29:27-29.

Szanto E, Gruber D, Sator M, et al. [Placebo-controlled study of melbrosia in treatment of climacteric symptoms.] [Article in German.] Wien Med Wochenschr. 1994; 144:130-134.

Tamura T, Fujii A, Kuboyama N. [Antitumor effects of royal jelly.] [Article in Japanese.] Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 1987; 89:73-80.

Thien FC, Leung R, Baldo BA, et al. Asthma and anaphylaxis induced by royal jelly. Clin Exp Allergy. 1996; 26:216-222.

Vittek J. Effects of royal jelly on serum lipids in experimental animals and humans with atherosclerosis. Experientia. 1995; 51:927-935.

Yonei Y, Shibagaki K, Tsukada N, et al. Case report: hemorrhagic colitis associated with royal jelly intake. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 1997; 12:495-499.

“Royal Jelly and Anti Aging”, By Joan Maughan

Royal jelly is a very powerful, health fighting tool even in the world of anti aging. None of us want to see those lines and those wrinkles begin to show on our faces. Yet, it is a natural sign of aging, right? The fact is that anti aging products that are on the market often promise us that they can erase what is there. While they may or may not be the best products to use for anti aging benefits, we do know that royal jelly can help in making the process a bit less tragic. Royal jelly can aid in relieving anti aging conditions that you may be facing. In fact, this naturally occurring substance can do much more. Royal jelly and bacterial and viral infections go hand in hand. You will find that it can help with cholesterol control and depression as well. A simple, natural product can help to ease the signs of age and improve your health at the same time.

Anti Aging Supplements
You are sure to find many anti aging supplements on the market in any given day. There are many, yet very few of them are natural products. Most are made with chemicals that will provide side effects even if they do work. Yet, a natural product like royal jelly can provide the same anti aging benefits with the addition of it being a natural product. If anti aging supplements are something that you purchase, take into consideration the benefits that royal jelly can provide to you.

Royal jelly is packed with nutrients
This type of natural substance does many things for you because of that natural nutrient load. Unlike other anti aging treatments, you will find royal jelly offers a simple solution of nutrients your body needs. It offers iron, zinc, B complex vitamins that are very important for health and anti aging treatments, Vitamins A, C, D and E, folic acid, amino acids and calcium. One of the most important substances that it provides to your body for use as an anti aging treatment is that of collagen, something that your body needs as you age to keep your skin looking young and healthy.

Royal jelly is a natural alternative medicine that has shown to offer many benefits to the skin. The collagen within the product allows for filling in those wrinkles that are so frequent with aging. In addition to this, royal jelly also has been shown to aid in enhancing the circulatory system. Because it is packed with nutrients that your body needs, royal jelly can also make you feel young as well.

Royal jelly is a tool that can be quite useful in the fight against aging. Although there is no solid proof that it will provide you skin with a beautiful, young look, many people have found the benefits of royal jelly to be quite rewarding. Since it is full of so many important nutrients that your body needs for healthy and well being, it is naturally going to aid in improving your health. The fact is that it is a natural alternative medicine. Because it is a natural alternative medicine, it offers nutrients your body needs without the side effects that chemicals often have. Therefore, those that are looking for help with anti aging treatments; consider adding the benefits of royal jelly. Not only will you look younger, but royal jelly will improve your cardiovascular system and even improve your sexual performance keeping you young at heart as well.

Royal Jelly - Miracle or Myth?
Royal Jelly is that remarkable product from the Beehive.  It is in fact produced by the worker bees and is the queen bee's exclusive diet.  Probably due to the fact that the queen bee lives for around five years in comparison to six weeks for the worker bees, has prompted a closer look at the qualities of Royal Jelly. 

There can be no denying the nutritional value of Royal Jelly which makes it an ideal natural dietary supplement.
As with many non pharmaceutical remedies, Royal Jelly has been claimed to cure many ailments.  You maybe suffering with a  skin disorder or a viral infection, using Royal Jelly has been found extremely beneficial in treating both these problems.  In fact there is a wide range of disorders that have been treated successfully with Royal Jelly.

What is Royal jelly used for?
Purported success remedies include:

Anti-Depressant
Anti-Aging
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol control 
Skin Disorders
Bacterial and Viral Infections
It has been claimed by some Dermatologist that Royal Jelly products can assist with the effects of free radicals.

Many people worldwide have reported the wonderful benefits they have received from using Royal Jelly, including depression.  Others have been far less enthusiastic about results.  However you look at it, be it the placebo effect or pure fantasy, nature's own miracle cure or not, the possibilities are obviously worth further scrutiny.

As with any drug or natural remedy there are always side effects of one sort or another.  Royal Jelly is by no means a safe alternative for everyone.  People who are allergic to bee stings for example, are at a high risk of serious side effects as are asthmatics.  Side effects range from skin irritations, bronchial distress to anaphylactic shock.

A closer look at the composition of Royal Jelly would appear to be relatively harmless considering it is made up of 60-70% water, proteins, fats, sugars, some B group vitamins plus other vitamins and minerals.  There is not a lot of scientific data to backup all the benefits of using Royal Jelly, some claims of lowering cholesterol have been made although this has not been officially documented. 

A research study in mice indicated longer life after being fed Royal Jelly for some four months.  Japanese researchers claim Royal Jelly contains a powerful antibacterial protein effective against bacterial infections such as staph and strep.  In addition to bacterial infections it is also claimed to be beneficial in treating viral infections.

The choice to use Royal Jelly is a personal one, but caution should be taken.  Before taking any new medicinal product it is wise to seek the advice of a qualified professional.

Research & Citations :

“Characterization of honey from different floral sources. Its functional properties and effects of honey species on storage of meat.”

 

Nagai,-T; Inoue,-R; Kanamori,-N; Suzuki,-N; Nagashima,-T .  Food-chemistry. 2006 July; 97(2): 256-262.

The antioxidative effects of honey species and their related products were evaluated using a lipid peroxidation model system. The antioxidant activities of honey species gradually decreased with passage of time. Buckwheat honey was as effective as 1 mM alpha-tocopherol. Superoxide-scavenging activities of propolis and royal jelly were strongest among the honey species tested. 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging ability of sample species were lower than those of 1 mM ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol. Hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was very high in all honeys (over 77% inhibition). From the results of the bacterial test on storage of meat and muscle, each honey exhibited the inhibition of bacterial growth. In particular, propolis and royal jelly exhibited the strongest inhibitory effects against bacterial growth. This suggests that honey species from different floral sources possess strong antioxidative and antibacterial activities and are scavengers of active oxygen species.

“Royal jelly has estrogenic effects in vitro and in vivo.”

Mishima,-S; Suzuki,-K-M; Isohama,-Y; Kuratsu,-N; Araki,-Y; Inoue,-M; Miyata,-T .  J-Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Oct 3; 101(1-3): 215-20

Royal jelly (RJ) from honeybees (Apis mellifera) is traditionally thought to improve menopausal symptoms. The potential estrogenic activities of RJ were investigated using various approaches. RJ competed for binding of 17beta-estradiol to the human estrogen receptor alpha and beta but its affinities were weak compared with diethylstilbestrol and phytoestrogens. The reporter gene expression assays suggested that 0.1-1 mg/ml RJ activated estrogen receptors, leading to enhanced transcription of a reporter gene through an estrogen-responsive element. 1 mg/ml RJ stimulated the mRNA expression of estrogen-responsive pS2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by increasing gene transcription in MCF-7 cells. Treatment with RJ at concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 1 mg/ml enhanced MCF-7 cell proliferation, but concomitant treatment with 1 microM tamoxifen blocked this effect. In vivo studies using ovariectomized rats showed that 17beta-estradiol (20 mg/kg, s.c.) treatment restored VEGF expression in both uterus and brain, whereas RJ (1 g/kg, s.c.) restored it in uterus but not in brain. These findings provide evidence that RJ has estrogenic activities through interaction with estrogen receptors followed by endogenous gene expressions.

“'Chemistry and bioactivity of royal jelly from Greece.”

Melliou,-E; Chinou,-I .  J-Agric-Food-Chem. 2005 Nov 16; 53(23): 8987-92

Twenty-five compounds were identified from the dichloromethane and methanol extracts of royal jelly from Greece. Among them, 16 compounds are reported for the first time as royal jelly constituents, whereas 7 of them are isolated for the first time as natural products. The 7 new compounds were fatty acid derivatives: 10-acetoxydecanoic acid (1), trans-10-acetoxydec-2-enoic acid (2), 11-oxododecanoic acid (3), (11S)-hydroxydodecanoic acid (4), (10R,11R)-dihydroxydodecanoic acid (5), 3,11-dihydroxydodecanoic acid (6), and (11S),12-dihydroxydodecanoic acid (7). The structures of the isolated compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods, mainly by the concerted application of 1D and 2D NMR techniques (HMQC, HMBC) and mass spectrometry. The studied sample and the isolated compounds were tested for their antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi and exhibited interesting activities.

CHOLINE

The Linus Pauling Institute:

Although choline is not by strict definition a vitamin, it is an essential nutrient. Despite the fact that humans can synthesize it in small amounts, choline must be consumed in the diet to maintain health (1). The majority of the body's choline is found in specialized fat molecules known as phospholipids, the most common of which is called phosphatidylcholine or lecithin (2).

Function
Choline and compounds derived from choline (metabolites) serve a number of vital biological functions (2-4).

Structural integrity of cell membranes
Choline is used in the synthesis of the phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, structural components of all human cell membranes.

Cell signaling
The choline-containing phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin are precursors for the intracellular messenger molecules diacylglycerol and ceramide. Two other choline metabolites, platelet activating factor (PAF) and sphingophosphorylcholine are also known to be cell signaling molecules.

Nerve impulse transmission
Choline is a precursor for acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter, involved in muscle control, memory, and many other functions.

Lipid (fat) transport and metabolism
Fat and cholesterol consumed in the diet are transported to the liver by lipoproteins called chylomicrons. In the liver, fat and cholesterol are packaged into lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) for transport through the blood to tissues that require them.  Phosphatidylcholine is a required component of VLDL particles. Without adequate phosphatidylcholine, fat and cholesterol accumulate in the liver (see Deficiency).
Major source of methyl groups

Choline may be oxidized in the body to form a metabolite called betaine.  Betaine is a source of methyl (CH3) groups required for methylation reactions. Methyl groups from betaine may be used to convert homocysteine to methionine. Elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Deficiency

Symptoms

Men and women fed intravenously (IV) with solutions that contained adequate methionine and folate, but lacked choline have developed a condition called "fatty liver" and signs of liver damage that resolved when choline was provided (4). Choline is required to form the phosphatidylcholine portion of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles. VLDL particles transport fat from the liver to the tissues (see Function). When the supply of choline is inadequate, VLDL particles cannot be synthesized and fat accumulates in the liver ultimately resulting in liver damage. Because low density lipoprotein (LDL) particles are formed from VLDL particles, choline deficient individuals also have reduced blood levels of LDL cholesterol (6). Healthy male volunteers with normal folate and vitamin B-12 nutritional status fed a choline deficient diet developed elevated blood levels of a liver enzyme called alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Elevated ALT activity is a sign of liver damage. Liver damage appears to be the result of increased liver cell death. In cell culture, liver cells initiate programmed cell death (apoptosis) when deprived of choline (4).

Nutrient interactions
The human requirement for choline is affected by its relationships with other methyl group donors such as folate and S-adenosyl methionine (SAM).  See diagram. The methyl group donor (SAM) is synthesized from the amino acid, methionine. Three molecules of SAM are required for the three methylations of phosphatidylethanolamine required to synthesize phosphatidylcholine. Once SAM donates a methyl group it becomes S-adenosyl homocysteine, which is metabolized to homocysteine.  Homocysteine can be converted to methionine in a reaction that requires methyl tetrahydrofolate (THF) and a vitamin B-12-dependent enzyme. Alternately, betaine (a metabolite of choline) may be used as the methyl donor for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine (2). For a more thorough discussion of the relationships between homocysteine levels and nutrient intake see the Linus Pauling Institute Newsletter article: The Vascular Toxicity of Homocysteine and How to Control it.

A study of 21 men and women fed diets that varied in folate and choline content indicated that choline is used as a methyl group donor when folate intake is low, and that the de novo synthesis of phosphatidylcholine is not sufficient to maintain adequate choline nutritional status when dietary folate and choline intakes are low (5).

The Adequate Intake (AI)
In 1998, the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the Institute of Medicine established a dietary reference intake (DRI) for choline (3). The FNB felt the existing scientific evidence was insufficient to calculate an RDA for choline, so they set an Adequate Intake level (AI). The main criterion for establishing the AI for choline was the prevention of liver damage (see Deficiency).

Adequate Intake (AI) for Choline
Life stage Age Males (mg/day) Females
Infants 0-6 months 125 125
Infants 7-12 months 150 150
Children 1-3 years 200 200
Children 4-8 years 250 250
Children 9-13 years 375 375
Adolescents 14-18 years 550 400
Adults 19 years and older 550 425
Pregnancy All ages - 450
Breastfeeding All ages - 550

Disease Prevention

Cardiovascular diseases
A large body of research indicates that even moderately elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases (7). For more information on homocysteine and cardiovascular diseases, see Folic Acid. Choline, when oxidized in the body to form betaine, provides a methyl group for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine by the enzyme, betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT). See diagram. Despite its relevance, the relationship of betaine and choline to homocysteine metabolism has been only lightly investigated in humans.

Methodological problems make betaine and BHMT difficult to measure. One study found higher urinary excretion of betaine and its metabolites in patients with vascular disease and elevated homocysteine levels than in control subjects, suggesting that elevated blood homocysteine levels were not related to reduced intake of choline or betaine or diminished activity of BHMT (8). In preliminary studies, pharmacologic doses of betaine (1.7 to 6 grams/day) were found to reduce blood levels of homocysteine in a small number of patients with vascular disease and elevated homocysteine levels. Although further research is indicated, convincing evidence that increased dietary intake or blood levels of choline or betaine affect homocysteine levels in humans is presently lacking (9).

Cancer
In rats, dietary choline deficiency is associated with an increased incidence of spontaneous liver cancer and increased sensitivity to carcinogenic chemicals. A number of mechanisms have been proposed to explain the cancer promoting effects of choline deficiency: a) choline deficiency causes liver damage and regenerating liver cells are more sensitive to the effects of carcinogenic chemicals, b) choline deficiency results in decreased methylation of DNA, resulting in abnormal DNA repair, c) choline deficiency results in increased oxidative stress in the liver, increasing the likelihood of DNA damage, d) choline deficiency may stimulate changes in the programmed cell death (apoptosis) of liver cells, contributing to the development of liver cancer, and e) choline deficiency activates the potent cell signaling molecule, protein kinase C, which creates a cascade of effects that are still being investigated (2,4).  The implications for choline deficiency on human susceptibility to cancer remain unclear.

Cognitive functioning (memory)
Increased dietary intake of choline very early in life can diminish the severity of memory deficits in aged rats. Choline supplementation of the mothers of unborn rats, as well as rat pups during the first month of life, leads to improved performance in spatial memory tests months after choline supplementation has been discontinued (2). The significance of these findings to humans is not yet known. More research is needed to determine the role of choline in the developing brain, and whether choline intake is useful in the prevention of memory loss or dementia in humans.

Disease Treatment

Dementia (Alzheimer's disease)
Alzheimer's disease has been associated with a deficit of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, in the brain (10). One possible cause is a decrease in the enzyme that converts choline into acetylcholine in the brain. Large doses of lecithin (phosphatidylcholine) have been used to treat patients with dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease in hope of raising the amount of acetylcholine available in the brain. However, a systematic review of the randomized trials did not find lecithin to be more beneficial than placebo in the treatment of patients with dementia or cognitive impairment (11).

Food sources
Very little information is available on the choline content of foods (4). Most choline in foods is found in the form of phosphatidylcholine. Milk, eggs, liver, and peanuts are especially rich in choline.  Phosphatidylcholine also known as lecithin contains about 13% choline by weight.  Presently, national surveys do not provide any information on the dietary intake of choline, but it has been estimated that the average intake by adults is between 730 and 1,040 mg/day (2). Lecithins added during food processing may increase the daily consumption of choline by about 115 mg/day (3). Strict vegetarians who consume no milk or eggs may be at risk of inadequate choline intake.

Food Serving Total Choline (mg)
Beef liver, pan fried 3 ounces* 355
Wheat germ, toasted 1 cup 172
Egg 1 large 126
Atlantic cod, cooked 3 ounces 71
Beef, trim cut, cooked 3 ounces 66
Brussel sprouts, cooked 1 cup 63
Broccoli, cooked 1 cup, chopped 62
Salmon 3 ounces 56
Shrimp, canned 3 ounces 49
Peanut butter, smooth 2 tablespoons 20
Milk chocolate 1.5-ounce bar 20
*A three-ounce serving of meat or fish is about the size of a deck of cards.

Supplements
Choline salts, such as choline chloride and choline bitartrate are available as supplements. Phosphatidylcholine supplements also provide choline; however, they are only 13% choline by weight. Therefore, a supplement providing 4,230 mg (4.2 grams) of phosphitidyl choline would provide 550 mg of choline. Although the chemical term, "lecithin" is synonymous with phosphatidylcholine, commercial lecithin preparations may contain anywhere from 20-90% phosphatidylcholine. Thus, lecithin supplements may contain even less than 13% choline (13).

Toxicity
High doses (10 to 16 grams/day) of choline have been associated with a fishy body odor, vomiting, salivation, and increased sweating. The fishy body odor results from excessive production and excretion of trimethylamine, a metabolite of choline. Taking large doses of choline in the form of phosphatidylcholine (lecithin) does not generally result in fishy body odor, because its metabolism results in little trimethylamine.  A dose of 7.5 grams of choline/day was found to have a slight blood pressure lowering (hypotensive) effect, which could result in dizziness or fainting.  Choline magnesium trisalicylate at doses of 3 grams/day has resulted in impaired liver function, generalized itching, and ringing of the ears (tinnitus). However, it is likely that these effects were a result of the salicylate, rather than the choline in the preparation (3).

In 1998, the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the Institute of Medicine established the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for choline at 3.5 grams/day for adults. This recommendation was based primarily on preventing hypotension (low blood pressure) and secondarily on preventing the fishy body odor due to increased excretion of trimethylamine. The UL was established for generally healthy people and the FNB noted that individuals with liver or kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, and a genetic disorder known as trimethylaminuria might be at increased risk of adverse effects when consuming choline at levels near the UL (3).

Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for Choline
Age group UL (g/day)
Infants 0-12 months Not possible to establish*
Children 1-8 years 1.0
Children 9-13 years 2.0
Adolescents 14-18 years 3.0
Adults 19 years and older 3.5
*Source of intake should be food and formula only.

Drug interactions
Methotrexate, a medication used in the treatment of cancer, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis, limits the availability of methyl groups donated from folate derivatives by inhibiting the enzyme, dihydrofolate reductase. Rats given methotrexate have shown evidence of diminished choline nutritional status including fatty liver, which can be reversed by choline supplementation (2). Thus, individuals taking methotrexate may have an increased choline requirement.

Linus Pauling Institute Recommendation
Little is known regarding the amount of dietary choline required to promote optimum health or prevent chronic disease in humans. The Linus Pauling Institute supports the recommendation by the Food and Nutrition Board of 550 milligrams (mg)/day for adult men and 425 mg/day for adult women. A varied diet should provide enough choline for most people, but vegetarians who consume no milk or eggs may be at risk of inadequate choline intake.

Older adults (65 years and older)
Little is known regarding the amount of dietary choline most likely to promote optimum health or prevent chronic disease in older adults. At present, there is no evidence to support a different intake of choline from that of younger adults (550 mg/day for men and 425 mg/day for women).


References
Written by:
Jane Higdon, Ph.D.
Linus Pauling Institute
Oregon State University
Reviewed by:
Steven H. Zeisel, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor and Chair of Nutrition
School of Public Health
The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Last updated 11/25/2003    Copyright 2000-2003 Linus Pauling Institute

Choline Information by Ray Sahelian, M.D. (index of vitamins and supplements)

Choline is an essential nutrient required by the body to make several important compounds necessary for healthy cell membranes. Choline helps form phosphatidylcholine, the primary phospholipid of cell membranes. Choline is also the precursor to acetylcholine, one of the crucial brain chemicals involved in memory. A major use of choline in the body is the formation of betaine, an important methyl donor. Furthermore, choline helps transport of lipids from the liver.

Choline Availability
Choline is sold in dosages ranging from 250 to 500 mg and in a number of forms including choline bitartrate, choline chloride, and choline citrate. Many brand names are available.

Choline in our diet
Choline, usually as part of phosphatidylcholine, is widely available in a number of foods, particularly eggs, fish, legumes, nuts, and meats and vegetables, as well as in human breast milk. Dietary intake of choline ranges from 300 to 900 mg a day. Most individuals who have a normal diet are not deficient in choline. The importance of choline was emphasized in 1998 when the National Academy of Sciences classified it as an essential nutrient. In the past, it was thought that the human body made adequate amounts when needed. However, a study by Dr. Steven Zeisel, from the Department of Nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, demonstrated that volunteers on a choline deficient diet were not able to produce enough of this nutrient.   
     

Choline studies
Several studies have been done administering choline to humans in order to evaluate memory function. The results have been mixed with some showing positive results (Sitaran 1978) while others indicating no improvement (Mohs 1980). Choline has also been tested in bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression. When six patients already on lithium were given choline bitartrate, five of them had a reduction in manic symptoms (see study at bottom of page).

Phosphatidylcholine and Homocysteine
A report in the July 2005 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, indicates that a daily dose of choline, supplemented as phosphatidyl choline, lowers fasting as well as postmethionine-loading plasma homocysteine concentrations in healthy men with mildly elevated homocysteine concentrations. If high homocysteine concentrations indeed cause cardiovascular disease, choline intake may reduce cardiovascular disease risk in humans. The mechanism may be the ability of choline to be transformed into betaine, also known as trimethylglycine. Higher intakes of dietary choline and betaine are related to lower homocysteine concentrations independent of other determinants, including folate and other B vitamins.

Choline Side effects
A common side effect of choline ingestion is increased body temperature and sweating. Nausea and loss of appetite can result from very high doses. Most people notice having more focus and being more alert. A positive side effect is that choline helps with erections.

Dr. Sahelian’s Experience
Within a few hours of taking choline, I notice an improvement in mental focus that lasts most of the day. I have not experienced side effects with dosages smaller than 500 mg. On a dosage of 750 mg, I experience increased body warmth and slight nausea.

Choline and Pregnancy
Pregnancy may deplete the amount of choline found in the liver resulting in reduced methylation of homocysteine. The demand of choline during pregnancy is very high due to the transport of choline from mother to the fetus. High intake of choline in pregnant women is important to lower the risk of neural tube defects.

According to the results of several studies in rats, providing choline during pregnancy enhances memory and learning capacity in the fetus (Williams 1998). Dr. Christina Williams, a behavioral neuroscientist at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, says her study findings demonstrate, "That supplementation with choline during the last third of pregnancy has fairly dramatic and long-lasting effects on the memory of offspring." A 1997 study published in Advances in Pediatrics by Dr. Zeisel showed that choline reserves are depleted during pregnancy and lactation (Zeisel 1997). This depletion may affect normal brain development and memory in the offspring. The National Academy of Sciences suggests that pregnant women consume at least 450 milligrams of choline per day.

 

INOSITOL

PDRHealth:

DESCRIPTION
Myo-inositol, the major nutritionally active form of inositol, is vital to many biological processes of the body, participating in a diverse range of activities. Myo-inositol is one of nine distinct isomers of inositol. It is essential for the growth of rodents, but not for most animals, including humans. Humans can make myo-inositol endogenously, which they do from glucose, and, even though myo-inositol is sometimes referred to as a vitamin, it is not a vitamin for humans or most animals. However, the dietary intake of myo-inositol can influence the levels of circulating and bound myo-inositol in the body and may influence certain biological activities. Nutritional supplementation of this cyclitol may affect behavior and may have anti-depressant and anti-anxiety activities. For more information on Inositol supplementation, see Inositol Hexanicotinate.
Myo-inositol intake from the average diet is approximately one gram daily. The major dietary forms of myo-inositol are inositol hexaphosphate or phytic acid, which is widely found in cereals and legumes and associated with dietary fiber, and myo-inositol-containing phospholipids from animal and plant sources.

Myo-inositol is also known as inositol, hexahydroxycyclohexane, cyclohexanehexol, mouse antialopecia factor and, chemically, as cis-1,2,3,5-trans-4,6-cyclohexanehexol. Myo-inositol is abbreviated as Ins and sometimes as just I.

Another naturally occurring isomer of inositol, D-chiro-inositol, has been found to have activity against insulin resistance. However, at present, D-chiro-inositol is neither available as a nutritional supplement nor as a drug. A hexanicotinate conjugate of myo-inositol, inositol niacinate or inositol nicotinate, is available in Europe as a drug for the treatment of circulatory problems.

ACTIONS AND PHARMACOLOGY

ACTIONS
Myo-inositol may have antidepressant and antianxiety activity.

MECHANISM OF ACTION
The mechanism of action of myo-inositol has yet to be fully elucidated. However, much is known about the biological roles of myo-inositol and some speculation can be made. Myo-inositol is metabolized to phosphatidylinositol, which makes up a small, but very significant, component of cell membranes. Phosphatidylinositol can be converted to phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate, a key intermediate in biological signaling. Phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate is the precursor of at least three second-messenger molecules. These are inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate, which modifies intracellular calcium levels, diacylglycerol, which regulates some members of the protein kinase C family, and phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-triphosphate, which is involved in signal transduction.

Some of the second-messenger activity is related to activation of serotonin receptors. It is hypothesized that the mechanism of action of myo-inositol's possible benefit in the management of depression, panic attacks and obsessive-compulsive behavior may be explained by myo-inositol's role as a second-messenger precursor.

PHARMACOKINETICS
Myo-inositol is absorbed from the small intestine following ingestion and is transported by the portal circulation to the liver and then by the systemic circulation to various tissues in the body, including the brain. Myo-inositol crosses the blood-brain barrier.

Within the liver and the various tissues of the body, myo-inositol enters into a wide range of diverse biochemical pathways. Myo-inositol reacts with CDP-diacylglycerol to form the phospholipid phosphatidylinositol, which can be incorporated into membrane structure. Phosphatidylinositol, via kinase reactions, forms phosphatidyl-4,5-bisphosphate, which is the precursor to inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate, diacylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-triphosphate, myo-inositol 1,3,4-triphosphate and myo-inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakis-phosphate, among others. The myo-inositol phosphates can be dephosphorylated via phosphatases.

It is believed that the mechanism of action of lithium is due, in part, to its inhibition of the phosphatase that converts myo-inositol-monophosphate back to myo-inositol.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Myo-inositol has exhibited positive effects in a number of studies related to depression, panic attacks and obsessive-compulsive disorder. On the other hand, it generally has not been effective in treating Alzheimer's disease, autism, schizophrenia and electroconvulsive therapy-induced memory impairment. The suggestion, from animal studies, that myo-inositol might be helpful in preventing neural tube defects has not been tested in humans.

RESEARCH SUMMARY
Inositol levels in cerebrospinal fluid are decreased, compared with general populations, in many suffering from depression. In one double-blind study, 28 depressed patients received placebo or high-dose (12 grams daily) myo-inositol for four weeks. Overall, significant improvement was achieved in the treatment group but not in the placebo group. There was improvement in both monopolar and bipolar depression in this pilot study. Myo-inositol, however, was not shown, in another study, to enhance or speed the response of depressed subjects to SSRIs (serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors). More research is needed in this area.

In another double-blind study, 21 patients with panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, received 12 grams daily of myo-inositol or placebo for four weeks. Again, the treated group, overall, achieved improvement (frequency and severity of both panic attacks and agoraphobia declined significantly), compared with no significant improvement in the placebo group.
And in a third double-blind study, this one with a crossover component, 13 patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) received 18 grams of inositol or placebo for six weeks each.

Subjects improved significantly more, as reflected by significantly lower scores on the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale, when taking myo-inositol than when taking placebo. Myo-inositol, in a subsequent study, did not enhance the effects of SSRIs in subjects with treatment-refractory OCD. Again, more research is needed to confirm and further elucidate myo-inositol's role in treating OCD. Its effectiveness, to the extent demonstrated to date, combined with its general lack of serious side effects, make it an attractive potential therapy in these psychiatric disorders.

Myo-inositol has not demonstrated the same promise in Alzheimer's disease, autism, schizophrenia and electroconvulsive therapy-induced memory impairment. Studies related to these conditions have produced negative results. And in children with attention deficit disorder, myo-inositol aggravated rather than ameliorated symptoms in one small study.

In general, it appears that myo-inositol may be effective in many of the same disorders in which the SSRIs have shown some usefulness. This may not be surprising since myo-inositol has been shown to help reverse desensitization of serotonin receptors.

Myo-inositol is also being investigated for possible use in pediatric respiratory depression syndrome and for prevention of neural tube defects. Its usefulness with respect to the latter has been demonstrated in embryonic mice, but its use in humans may be curtailed or limited due to the fact that it has also been shown to induce uterine contractions.

CONTRAINDICATIONS, PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS

CONTRAINDICATIONS
None known.

PRECAUTIONS
Because of lack of long-term safety data, myo-inositol should be avoided by pregnant women and nursing mothers. Also, high-dose myo-inositol may induce uterine contractions.
Because of the hypothetical possibility that myo-inositol may exacerbate hypomanic or manic symptoms in those with bipolar disorder, those with this condition should use supplemental myo-inositol with caution and under medical supervision.

ADVERSE REACTIONS
Myo-inositol supplementation is generally well tolerated. Gastrointestinal effects such as nausea and diarrhea are occasionally reported.

INTERACTIONS

DRUGS
Theoretically, high-dose myo-inositol may have additive effects with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as fluoxetine sertraline, paroxetine, fluvoxamine and citalopram, and with 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor agonists, such as sumatriptan.

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
No interactions known.

FOODS
Very small amounts of the inositol isomer, scyllo-inositol, are present in some foods. Scyllo-inositol has been reported to inhibit uptake of myo-inositol into the brain. Since the amount of scyllo-inositol intake is likely to be very little, this potential interaction is insignificant.

HERBS
Theoretically, high-dose myo-inositol may have additive effects with St. John's Wort.

OVERDOSAGE
Not reported.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
For the management of depression and panic attacks, 12 grams of myo-inositol daily, in divided doses, were used in clinical studies. In the clinical studies performed with myo-inositol, effects, if any, were seen in about one month. Compliance with such doses may be a problem.


LITERATURE
Barak Y, Levine J, Glassman A, et al. Inositol treatment of Alzheimer's disease: a double blind, cross-over placebo controlled trial. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 1996; 20:729-735.

Benjamin J, Levine J, Fox M, et al. Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of inositol treatment for panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry. 1995; 152:1084-1086.

Cohen RA, MacGregory LC, Spokes KC, et al. Effect of myo-inositol on renal Na-K-ATPase in experimental diabetes. Metabol. 1990; 39:1026-1032.

Colodny L, Hoffman RL. Inositol-clinical applications for exogenous use. Altern Med Rev. 1998; 3:432-447.

Downes CP. The cellular functions of myo-inositol. Biochem Soc Trans. 1989; 17:259-268.

Einat H, Belmaker RH, Kopilov M, et al. Rat brain monomines after acute and chronic myo-inositol treatment. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 1999; 10:27-30.

Einat H, Karbovski H, Korik J, et al. Inositol reduces depressive-like behaviors in two different models of depression. Psychopharmacology. 1999; 144:158-162.

Fox M, Levine J, Aviv A, Belmaker RH. Inositol treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Am J Psychiat. 1996; 153:1219-1221.

Holub BJ. Metabolism and function of myo-inositol and inositol phospholipids. Annu Rev Nutr. 1986; 6:563-597.

Holub BJ. The cellular forms and functions of the inositol phospholipids and their metabolic derivates. Nutr Rev. 1987; 45:65-71.

Khandelwal M, Reece EA, Wu YK, Borenstein M. Dietary myo-inositol therapy in hyperglycemic-induced embryopathy. Teratology. 1998; 57:79-84.

Larner J, Allan G, Kessler C, et al. Phosphoinositol glycan derived mediators and insulin resistance. Prospects for diagnosis and therapy. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol. 1998; 9:127-137.

Levine J. Controlled trials of inositol in psychiatry. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 1997; 7:147-155.

Levine J, Aviram A, Holan A, et al. Inositol treatment of action, J Neural Transm. 1997; 104:307-310.

Levine J, Barak Y, Gonzalues M, et al. Double-blind, controlled-trial of inositol treatment of depression. Am J Psychiatry. 1995; 152:792-794.

Levine J, Goldberger I, Rapaport A, et al. CSF inositol in schizophrenia and high-dose inositol treatment of schizophrenic. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 1994; 4:487-490.

Levine J, Kurtzman L, Rapoport A, et al. CSF inositol does not predict antidepressant response to inositol. J Neural Transm. 1996; 103:1457-1462.

Nestler JE, Jakabowicz DJ, Reamer P, et al. Ovulatory and metabolic effects of D-chiro-inositol in the polycystic overary syndrome. N Engl J Med. 1999; 340:1314-1320.

Seedat S, Stein DJ. Inositol augmentation of serotonin reuptake inhibitors in treatment-refractory obsessive-compulsive disorder: an open trial. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 1999; 14:353-356.

Research:

“Inositol as a treatment for psychiatric disorders: a scientific evaluation of its clinical effectiveness”

Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients,  Oct, 2004  by Gina L. Nick

Inositol is a naturally occurring isomer of glucose, though it is generally considered to be a member of the B vitamin family. It is a key intermediate in the intracellular phosphatidyl inositol second messenger pathway activated by numerous serotonergic, cholinergic, and noradrenergic receptors. (1) In this capacity it serves as an important signal transduction molecule, but inositol is also a structural component of cellular membrane phospholipids. (2) Research indicates that inositol is an effective and safe option in the treatment of panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, binge eating and/or depression. (3-9) Inositol's efficacy, in the absence of side effects, makes this nutrient an attractive addition to treatment plans for specific mood disorders. Following is a scientific review of inositol for the treatment of mood disorders, including a discussion of its anecdotal use for the treatment of insomnia and its cautioned use by pregnant women for the prevention of neural tube defects and embryopathies.

Inositol occurs naturally as phytic acid in the fiber component of numerous plant foods, especially whole grains, citrus fruit, nuts, and seeds, and as myoinositol in meat. In the intestinal tract, bacteria break down phytic acid into bioavailable inositol that is easily absorbed via the intestinal epithelium. Myoinositol is found to bioaccumulate most abundantly in the central nervous system, supporting a role for it in neurological function.

Other articles supporting the use of Inositol:
Levine J, Barak Y, Kofman O, et al. Follow-up and relapse analysis of an inositol study of depression. Isr J Psychiatry Relat Sci . 1995;32:14–21.

Levine J. Controlled trials of inositol in psychiatry. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol . 1997;7:147–155.

Benjamin J, Agam G, Levine J, et al. Inositol treatment in psychiatry. Psychopharmacol Bull . 1995;31:167–175.

Benjamin J, Levine J, Fux M, et al. Double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of inositol treatment for panic disorder. Am J Psychiatry . 1995;152:1084–1086.

Palatnik A, Frolov K, Fux M, et al. Double-blind, controlled, crossover trial of inositol versus fluvoxamine for the treatment of panic disorder. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2001;21:335–339.

RUTIN

From phytochemicals.info:

Synonyms: Rutoside, quercetin-3-rutinoside and sophorin

Description: Rutin is a bioflavonoid. Pure rutin is yellow or yellow-green colored needle-shaped crystal. Rutin is a flavonol glycoside comprised of the quercetin and the disaccharide rutinose (rhamnose and glucose).

Distribution: Rutin is found in many plants, fruits and vegetables. The richest source is buckwheat. Rutin is also found in citrus fruits, noni, black tea, apple peel. During digestion much of the rutin is metabolized to its aglycone, quercetin.

Action of Rutin: Rutin has strong antioxidant properties. Rutin has also the property to chelate metal ions, such as iron, thereby reducing the Fenton reaction (production damaging oxygen radicals). Rutin also seems to stabilize vitamin C. If rutin is taken together with vitamin C, the activity of ascorbic will be intensified.

Rutin is important because it strengthens capillaries and can help people who bruise or bleed easily. Studies have demonstrated that rutin can help to stop venous edema, that is an early sign of chronic venous disease of the leg.

Rutin has anti-inflammatory effects. Animal studies have shown that rutin has preventive and healing effects.

There are indications that rutin can inhibit some cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions.

Rutin may help to prevent atherogenesis and reduce the cytotoxicity of oxidized LDL-cholesterol.

 

CITRUS BIOFLAVONOIDS

From aurorahealthcare.com:


Supplement Forms / Alternate Names
  • Diosmetin, Diosmin, Hesperidin, Naringin, Narirutin, Neohesperidin, Nobiletin, Rutin, Tangeretin, Bioflavonoid

Principal Proposed Uses
  • Hemorrhoids, Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Other Proposed Uses
  • Easy Bruising, Hypertension, Leg Ulcers, Lymphedema Following Breast Cancer Surgery, Nosebleeds


Citrus fruits are well known for providing ample amounts of vitamin C. But they also supply bioflavonoids, substances that are not required for life but that may improve health. The major bioflavonoids found in citrus fruits are diosmin, hesperidin, rutin, naringin, tangeretin, diosmetin, narirutin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, and quercetin.

This article addresses the first five bioflavonoids listed above. Please see the article on quercetin for information on this supplement. A modified form of rutin, oxerutin, is also discussed in its own article.

Citrus bioflavonoids and related substances are widely used in Europe to treat diseases of the blood vessels and lymph system, including hemorrhoids, chronic venous insufficiency, leg ulcers, easy bruising, nosebleeds, and lymphedema following breast cancer surgery. These compounds are thought to work by strengthening the walls of blood vessels. Bioflavonoids are also often said to act as antioxidants; however, while they do have antioxidant activity in the test tube, growing evidence suggests that they do not act as antioxidants in people.45

Requirements/Sources
Citrus fruits contain citrus bioflavonoids in varying proportions. Even different brands of citrus juice may vary widely in their bioflavonoid concentrations and composition.1 For use as a supplement, bioflavonoids are extracted either from citrus fruits or other plant sources, such as buckwheat.

Therapeutic Dosages
A typical dosage of citrus bioflavonoids is 500 mg twice daily. The most studied citrus bioflavonoid treatment is a special micronized (finely ground) combination of diosmin (90%) and hesperidin (10%).

Therapeutic Uses
Double-blind trials suggest (but do not prove conclusively) that a micronized combination preparation of diosmin and hesperidin may be helpful for hemorrhoids.2–6,43
Diosmin and hesperidin, as well as the bioflavonoid rutin, may also be helpful for chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which the veins in the legs begin to weaken.7-10,34,35
At least one good double-blind trial found diosmin and hesperidin also to be helpful for individuals who develop bruises or nosebleeds easily.13

Citrus bioflavonoids have also been tried, with some success, for treating lymphedema (arm swelling) following breast cancer surgery.14

Note: Do not use bioflavonoid combinations containing tangeretin if you are taking tamoxifen for breast cancer.

In addition, highly preliminary evidence suggests that citrus bioflavonoids may help reduce cholesterol levels,15,16 control inflammation,17,36 benefit people with diabetes,18 reduce allergic reactions,19 and prevent cancer.20,36

"Sweetie fruit," a bioflavonoid-rich hybrid of grapefruit and pummelo, has shown a bit of promise for treatment of high blood pressure.42

What Is the Scientific Evidence for Citrus Bioflavonoids?

Hemorrhoids
A 2-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 120 individuals with recurrent hemorrhoid flare-ups found that treatment with combined diosmin and hesperidin significantly reduced the frequency and severity of hemorrhoid attacks.21 Another double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 100 individuals had positive results with the same bioflavonoids in relieving symptoms once a flare-up of hemorrhoid pain had begun.22 A 90-day, double-blind trial of 100 individuals with bleeding hemorrhoids also found significant benefits for both treatment of acute attacks and prevention of new ones.23 Finally, this bioflavonoid combination was found to compare favorably with surgical treatment of hemorrhoids.24 However, less impressive results were seen in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in which all participants were given a fiber laxative with either combined diosmin and hesperidin or placebo.25

Two studies claimed to find that diosmin/hesperidin reduces pain after hemorrhoid surgery.38,39 In fact, these studies show little to nothing, as the researchers failed to use a placebo group, and simply compared treated participants to untreated participants. (For information on why this matters, see Why Does this Database Rely on Double-Blind Studies?)
Overall, the evidence remains incomplete, though promising.43

Chronic Venous Insufficiency
A 2-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 200 people with relatively severe chronic venous insufficiency found that treatment with diosmin/hesperidin significantly improved symptoms as compared to placebo.34

Another double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of diosmin/hesperidin enrolled 101 people with relatively mild chronic venous insufficiency.35 The results showed little difference between the two groups; the authors theorize that diosmin/hesperidin might be more effective in severe chronic venous insufficiency.

A 2-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effects of diosmin/hesperidin in 107 people with nonhealing leg ulcers (sores) caused by venous

insufficiency or other conditions.26 The results indicated that treatment significantly improved the rate of healing.

Also, a 3-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 67 individuals evaluated buckwheat tea (a good source of rutin) for chronic venous insufficiency.27 The results showed less leg swelling in the treated group.

One study supposedly showed that the supplement oxyrutin is more effective than diosmin/hesperidin for chronic venous insufficiency, but the study was too poorly designed to provide meaningful results.40

Easy Bruising
Some people bruise particularly easily due to fragile capillaries. A 6-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 96 people with this condition found that combined diosmin and hesperidin decreased symptoms of capillary fragility, such as bruising and nosebleeds.28
Two rather poorly designed studies from the 1960s found benefits with a combination of vitamin C and citrus bioflavonoids for decreasing bruising in collegiate athletes.29

Lymphedema
Breast cancer surgery sometimes causes persistent swelling of the arm (lymphedema) caused by damage to lymph vessels. Citrus bioflavonoids as well as other natural supplements have shown promise for this condition. In a 3-month, double-blind study, 57 women with lymphedema received either placebo or combination therapy consisting of the modified citrus bioflavonoid trimethylhesperidin chalcone plus the bioflavonoid-rich herb butcher’s broom.37 The results indicated that use of the bioflavonoid combination resulted in significantly less swelling.

Safety Issues
Extensive investigations of diosmin and hesperidin have found them to be essentially nontoxic and free of drug interactions.30 The combination has been given to 50 pregnant women in a research study, without apparent harm to mothers or babies.31

Some evidence suggests that the bioflavonoid naringen may interact with medications in the calcium channel blocker family, increasing blood levels of the drug.44 This may necessitate a reduction in drug dosage.

The citrus bioflavonoid tangeretin may reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen, a drug used to treat breast cancer32,41

One highly preliminary study suggests that some citrus bioflavonoids in the diet of pregnant women might increase the risk of infant leukemia; hesperidin did not produce this effect, and diosmin was not tested.33

Interactions You Should Know About
If you are taking tamoxifen for breast cancer, you should avoid citrus fruits and juices and the citrus bioflavonoid tangeretin.

Calcium channel blockers, use of the bioflavonoid naringen may necessitate a reduction in medication dose.

References
1.   Ross SA, Ziska DS, Zhoa K, et al. Variance of common flavonoids by brand of grapefruit juice. Fitoterapia. 2000;71:154–161.

2.   Godeberge P. Daflon 500 mg in the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease: a demonstrated efficacy in comparison with placebo. Angiology. 1994;45:574–578.

3.   Cospite M. Double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of clinical activity and safety of Daflon 500 mg in the treatment of acute hemorrhoids. Angiology. 1994;45:566–573.

4.   Thanapongsathorn W, Vajrabukka T. Clinical trial of oral diosmin (DaflonŴ) in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Dis Colon Rectum. 1992;35:1085–1088.

5.   Misra MC, Parshad R. Randomized clinical trial of micronized flavonoids in the early control of bleeding from acute internal haemorrhoids. Br J Surg. 2000;87:868–872.

6.   Ho YH, Tan M, Seow-Choen F. Micronized purified flavonidic fraction compared favorably with rubber band ligation and fiber alone in the management of bleeding hemorrhoids: randomized controlled trial. Dis Colon Rectum. 2000;43:66–69.

7.   Tsouderos Y. Venous tone: are the phlebotonic properties predictive of a therapeutic benefit? A comprehensive view of our experience with Daflon 500 mg. Z Kardiol. 1991;80(suppl 7):95–101.

8.   Ihme N, Kiesewetter H, Jung F, et al. Leg oedema protection from a buckwheat herb tea in patients with chronic venous insufficiency: a single-centre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1996;50:443–447.

9.   Guilhou JJ, Dereure O, Marzin L, et al. Efficacy of Daflon 500 mg in venous leg ulcer healing: a double-blind, randomized, controlled versus placebo trial in 107 patients. Angiology. 1997;48:77–85.

10.   Guilhou JJ, Fevrier F, Debure C, et al. Benefit of a 2-month treatment with a micronized, purified flavonoidic fraction on venous ulcer healing. A randomized, double-blind, controlled versus placebo trial. Int J Microcirc Clin Exp. 1997;17(Suppl 1):21–26.

11.   Guilhou JJ, Dereure O, Marzin L, et al. Efficacy of Daflon 500 mg in venous leg ulcer healing: a double-blind, randomized, controlled versus placebo trial in 107 patients. Angiology. 1997;48:77–85.

12.   Guilhou JJ, Fevrier F, Debure C, et al. Benefit of a 2-month treatment with a micronized, purified flavonoidic fraction on venous ulcer healing. A randomized, double-blind, controlled versus placebo trial. Int J Microcirc Clin Exp. 1997;17(Suppl 1):21–26.

13.   Galley P, Thiollet M. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of a new veno-active flavonoid fraction (S 5682) in the treatment of symptomatic capillary fragility. Int Angiol. 1993;12:69–72.

14.   Pecking AP, Fevrier B, Wargon C, et al. Efficacy of Daflon 500 mg in the treatment of lymphedema (secondary to conventional therapy of breast cancer). Angiology. 1997;48:93–98.

15.   Lee SH, Park YB, Bae KH, et al. Cholesterol-lowering activity of naringenin via inhibition of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase and acyl coenzyme A: cholesterol acyltransferase in rats. Ann Nutr Metab. 1999;43:173–180.

16.   Shin YW, Bok SH, Jeong TS, et al. Hypocholesterolemic effect of naringin associated with hepatic cholesterol regulating enzyme changes in rats. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1999;69:341–347.

17.   Emim JA, Oliveira AB, Lapa AJ. Pharmacological evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of a citrus bioflavonoid, hesperidin, and the isoflavonoids, duartin and claussequinone, in rats and mice. J Pharm Pharmacol. 1994;46:118–122.

18.   Manuel y Keenoy B, Vertommen J, De Leeuw I. The effect of flavonoid treatment on the glycation and antioxidant status in Type 1 diabetic patients. Diabetes Nutr Metab. 1999;12:256–263.

19.   Middleton E Jr, Drzewiecki G, Tatum J. The effects of citrus flavonoids on human basophil and neutrophil function. Planta Med. 1987;53:325–328.

20.   So FV, Guthrie N, Chambers AF, et al. Inhibition of human breast cancer cell proliferation and delay of mammary tumorigenesis by flavonoids and citrus juices. Nutr Cancer. 1996;26:167–181.

21.   Godeberge P. Daflon 500 mg in the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease: a demonstrated efficacy in comparison with placebo. Angiology. 1994;45:574–578.

22.   Cospite M. Double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of clinical activity and safety of Daflon 500 mg in the treatment of acute hemorrhoids. Angiology. 1994;45:566–573.

23.   Misra MC, Parshad R. Randomized clinical trial of micronized flavonoids in the early control of bleeding from acute internal haemorrhoids. Br J Surg. 2000;87:868–872.

24.   Ho YH, Tan M, Seow-Choen F. Micronized purified flavonidic fraction compared favorably with rubber band ligation and fiber alone in the management of bleeding hemorrhoids: randomized controlled trial. Dis Colon Rectum. 2000;43:66–69.

25.   Thanapongsathorn W, Vajrabukka T. Clinical trial of oral diosmin (DaflonŴ) in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Dis Colon Rectum. 1992;35:1085–1088.

26.   Guilhou JJ, Dereure O, Marzin L, et al. Efficacy of Daflon 500 mg in venous leg ulcer healing: a double-blind, randomized, controlled versus placebo trial in 107 patients. Angiology. 1997;48:77–85.

27.   Ihme N, Kiesewetter H, Jung F, et al. Leg oedema protection from a buckwheat herb tea in patients with chronic venous insufficiency: a single-centre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1996;50:443–447.

28.   Galley P, Thiollet M. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of a new veno-active flavonoid fraction (S 5682) in the treatment of symptomatic capillary fragility. Int Angiol. 1993;12:69–72.

29.   Miller MJ. Injuries to athletes. Evaluation of ascorbic acid and water soluble citrus bioflavonoids in the prophylaxis of injuries in athletes. Med Times. 1960;88:313–316.

30.   Meyer OC. Safety and security of Daflon 500 mg in venous insufficiency and in hemorrhoidal disease. Angiology. 1994;45:579–584.

31.   Buckshee K, Takkar D, Aggarwal N. Micronized flavonoid therapy in internal hemorrhoids of pregnancy. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 1997;57:145–151.

32.   Bracke ME, Depypere HT, Boterberg T, et al. Influence of tangeretin on tamoxifen's therapeutic benefit in mammary cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst. 1999;91:354–359.

33.   Strick R, Strissel PL, Borgers S, et al. Dietary bioflavonoids induce cleavage in the MLL gene and may contribute to infant leukemia. Proc Natl Acad Sci. 2000;97:4790–4795.

34.   Laurent R, Gilly R, Frileux C. Clinical evaluation of a venotropic drug in man. Example of Daflon 500 mg. Int Angiol. 1988;7:39-43.

35.   Danielsson G, Jungbeck C, Peterson K, et al. A randomised controlled trial of micronised purified flavonoid fraction vs placebo in patients with chronic venous disease. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2002;23:73–76.

36.   Manthey JA, Grohmann K, Guthrie N. Biological properties of citrus flavonoids pertaining to cancer and inflammation. Curr Med Chem. 2001;8:135–153.

37.   Cluzan RV, Alliot F, Ghabboun S, et al. Treatment of secondary lymphedema of the upper limb with CYCLO 3 FORT. Lymphology. 1996;29:29–35.

38.   La Torre F, Nicolai AP. Clinical use of micronized purified flavonoid fraction for treatment of symptoms after hemorrhoidectomy: results of a randomized, controlled, clinical trial. Dis Colon Rectum. 2004 Mar 25 [Epub ahead of print]

39.   Colak T, Akca T, Dirlik M, et al. Micronized flavonoids in pain control after hemorrhoidectomy: a prospective randomized controlled study. Surg Today. 2003;33:828-32.

40.   Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Pellegrini L, et al. HR, 0-(beta-hydroxyethyl)-rutosides, in comparison with diosmin+hesperidin in chronic venous insufficiency and venous microangiopathy: an independent, prospective, comparative registry study. Angiology. 2005;56:1-8.

41.   Liu B, Edgerton S, Yang X et al. Low-dose dietary phytoestrogen abrogates tamoxifen-associated mammary tumor prevention. Cancer Res. 2005;65:879-86.

42.   Reshef N, Hayari Y, Goren C et al. Antihypertensive effect of sweetie fruit in patients with stage I hypertension. Am J Hypertens. 2005;18:1360-3.

43.   Alonso-Coello P, Zhou Q, Martinez-Zapata MJ et al. Meta-analysis of flavonoids for the treatment of haemorrhoids. Br J Surg. 2006 May 31 [Epub ahead of print].

44.   Yeum CH, Choi JS. Effect of naringin pretreatment on bioavailability of verapamil in rabbits. Arch Pharm Res. 2006;29:102-7.

45.   Lotito SB, Frei B. Consumption of flavonoid-rich foods and increased plasma antioxidant capacity in humans: cause, consequence, or epiphenomenon? Free Radic Biol Med. 2006;41:1727-46.

DESICCATED LIVER

Bodybuilding.com supports the use of desiccated liver for exercise and wellbeing:

1. What are they and where do they come from?
Dessicated liver is extracted from the liver of beef cattle. It is rich in B vitamins and is a natural source of iron and folic acid.

2. What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?
Dessicated liver helps to support a healthy red blood cell count and stimulate appetite. Anabolic steroids also stimulate appetite and support a healthy red blood cell count.
Dessicated liver is a natural source of iron. Supplementing with too much synthetic iron can result in an iron overdose. Overdosing with synthetic iron can result in death. With natural sources of iron, overdose is almost never likely to occur, even in individuals who consume large quantities of red meat.

The Iron and B vitamins in desiccated liver tablets contribute to bone health, muscle building and immune functioning.

3. Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?
Everyone can benefit from supplementing with dessicated liver tablets. Populations that may benefit most from the supplementation of desiccated liver include: Bodybuilders and athletes and individuals deficient in folic acid.

Bodybuilders and athletes may benefit from supplementing with dessicated liver due to its ability to stimulate appetite, support blood health and contribute to the edition of lean body mass to one's frame. In the 1960s and '70s bodybuilders like Tom Plattz would supplement with liver tablets to maximize muscle gains.

4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?
Although there are no known side effects from supplementing with desiccated liver tablets, it is recommended that label directions be followed at all times. Individuals with iron related disorders should consult with a physician prior to the supplementation of dessicated liver.
Republished from Clayton South's Health Facts.

PABA (PARA AMINOBENZOIC ACID)

Wikipedia:
4-Aminobenzoic acid (also known as para-aminobenzoic acid or PABA) is an organic compound with the molecular formula C7H7NO2. PABA is a white crystalline substance that is only slightly soluble in water. It consists of a benzene ring substituted with an amino group and a carboxylic acid.

PABA is an essential nutrient for some bacteria and is sometimes called Vitamin Bx[citation needed]. However, PABA is not essential to human health, and is therefore not officially classified as a vitamin. Although humans lack the ability to synthesize folate from PABA, it is sometimes marketed as an essential nutrient under the premise that it can stimulate intestinal bacteria.
PABA is an intermediate in bacterial synthesis of folate. Sulfonamides are chemically similar to PABA, and their antibacterial activity is due to their ability to interfere with conversion of PABA to folate, and subsequent utilization, by bacteria.

In the past, PABA has been widely used as a UV filter in sunscreen formulations. However, it has been determined that it increases the formation of a particular DNA defect in human cells, thus increasing the risk of skin cancer in people who lack the mechanisms to repair these cellular defects.[1] Currently, safer and more effective derivatives of PABA, such as octyl dimethyl PABA, are more commonly used.

The potassium salt is used as a drug against fibrotic skin disorders under the trade name POTABA.[2] PABA is also occasionally used in pill form by sufferers of Irritable bowel syndrome to treat the associated gastrointestinal symptoms.

PABA also finds use in the manufacture of esters, folic acid, and azo dyes.

PDRHealth.com reports:

Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA)

TRADE NAMES
PABA and para-aminobenzoate potassium are available from numerous manufacturers generically. Branded products for para-aminobenzoate potassium include M2 Potassium (Miller Pharmacal) and Potaba (Glenwood).