Herbal Collective March'16

The Better living with herbs and natural health

March, 2016

Essential Oil Studied for Autistic Children Benefit of Milk Thistle Raw Protein Benefits Three Fruits for Digestion

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How Herbal Cleanses Help

A

s I write this it’s a cold blustery day outside.

Publisher’s Note March has certainly come in like a lion while February went out like a lamb, warm and sunny.

While the weather may be turbulent, it’s the time of year to look at getting our health on track and less turbulent.

One of the best ways to do that is with an herbal cleanse.

There are many herbal cleansing products on the market – the key is to look for the herbs you want and to understand how those herbs affect the body.

That’s why the theme of this issue is on cleansing and the best herbs to accomplish that.

Take your time doing your research and gathering information if this is your first cleanse.

It pays to know what to expect so you can plan activities around that.

Obviously you’re not going to start a cleanse the day before you’re invited to attend a buffet.

You need to know what you have to give up, like alcohol, to achieve your goals of better health.

I have always found a cleanse to heal the body at the cellular level and have over time healed myself from conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, PMS and asthma.

It wasn’t just the cleanse that helped – it was the foods and herbs I took over time.

I also embraced a healthy lifestyle and have never regretted it. I feel healthier now than I was 15 years ago and take better care of myself.

It’s because I know better now and took the effort to learn what I needed to do. Anyone can do this - if you are serious and committed to a healthier lifestyle.

So check out the cleansing articles from the different perspectives – herbal, Ayurveda, homeopathy and our herb of the month, milk thistle.

Also read the other articles – benefits of propolis, raw protein, a natural health fair coming in April, acupuncture for angina and much more.

Because the more you learn about how herbs and a natural lifestyle can help you, the more it becomes ingrained in you.

Enjoy this transition to spring!

Sincerely Marilyn Zink

Your source for clean ingredient natural health products since 1993. Available at our new online store in early January, or from your natural health pracƟƟoner/reseller near you.

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Contents The Theme: How to cleanse your body for better health.

Columns and Departments Essential Oils Essential oils studied for autistic children....5

How to choose an herbal detox.......................4 In the Kitchen Three fruit formula for digestion.....................6 Beet/vegetable chips........................................11 Detox for chronic conditions............................7 Cauliflower pizza shell......................................11 Features Natural Health Show April 9..............................9 Spring herbs for energy....................................10 Tips for herb gardeing in spring....................14 Propolis, a natural super drug........................15 Acupuncture effective for angina.................16

The Herbal Collective published by Pro Write Publishing Publisher/Editor - Marilyn Zink Contact: 250-729-1593 info@herbalcollective.ca, www.herbalcollective.ca Contributors

Klaus Ferlow, Neelam Toprani, Louis Hoolaeff, Colin Gillies, Yarrow Willard The Herbal Collective is published every month by Pro Write Publishing and distributed through social media, various platforms and the Herbal Collective blog and email list. Advertising deadline is around the 21 of every month. The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the editor. Different viewpoints are welcome. All editorial material is copyrighted. Any medical advice is given solely for information purposes only and no responsibility is assumed on the publisher’s part.

Herb of the Month Milk thistle for liver protection......................12

How to Choose an Herbal Detox

By Marilyn Zink s we head into spring it’s a great time to prepare our bodies for warmer weather and more activities.

Doing a detoxification and cleanse will accomplish that as it’s a way to reset the body towards better health.

People are often concerned about doing a cleanse so we want to clear up any misconceptions so you can be properly prepared.

There’s actually two parts to a cleanse – doing the cleanse itself and nourishing the body after a cleanse.

An herbal cleanse will clear the main detoxification organs of the body – the liver, lungs, colon, kidneys, blood, skin and lymphatic system.

A

How DO You Know You Need a Cleanse?

There are some good ways your body tells you it is overloaded. You’ll feel sluggish, likely constipated, with frequent headaches, colds or flu and you might have bad breath, perhaps experience insomnia or have aches and pains.

These are all signs the body can benefit from an herbal cleanse. But how do you know what to choose and which herbs work best in a cleanse?

Cleansing herbs work on the main organs in the body like the colon, kidneys and liver.

Look for herbs like burdock, dandelion, milk thistle (the Herb of the Month),

Burdock This herb has been used against fungal and bacterial infections as it contains chemicals called polyacetylenes which kill disease-causing bacteria. Brazilian researchers have shown that the herb inhibits the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus that causes yeast infections and several types of bacteria such as staphylococcus, pseudomonas and enterococcus.

Dandelion This well known weed has been used for centuries as a liver cleanse as it supports bile production and bile helps break down fats and move toxins out of the body. Dandelion is a diuretic which also aids in cleansing but it should only be used for short periods of time.

Wormwood Wormwood has a reputation for killing intestinal worms such as pinworms and roundworms, which it 4 Herbal Collective March,’16

has been used historically for since Egyptian times. It has also been used to aid in digestion and this helps make it a good cleansing herb.

Laxative Herbs Many cleanses also include laxative herbs that help move the toxins out of the body. It’s important to know that laxative herbs should only be used for a short time as it can cause bowel dependency.

As most cleanses last 10 days to a couple weeks, this is not a problem. Laxative herbs include Senna and Cascara Sagrada, which are some of the stronger laxatives.

Milder laxatives ae flaxseed, psyllium husks, which aren’t really herbs. Some people may wish to start with these laxatives before trying something more powerful

Cascara Sagrada This herb has been endorsed by the German Commission E, which is a counterpart to the FDA, as a safe, effective laxative. It contains chemical compounds that stimulate the colon. But it should not be used by anyone with irritable bowel syndrome or other gastrointestinal conditions.

Senna This herb is a powerful laxative and like cascara sagrada, contains anthraquinones, chemicals that stimulate the colon. Do not use for more than two weeks. It should not be used by those with gastrointestinal conditions.

What to Expect on a Cleanse Some people are reluctant to start a cleanse as they expect to spend a lot of time running to the washroom.

This is not always the case unless you are taking some of the powerful laxatives listed above.

Sometimes a cleanse will make an individual feel lethargic so many people start a cleanse on a Friday so they can take extra time to rest and drink plenty of fluids.

Drinking plenty of fluids is important and usually by the third day (Monday) people are experiencing energy and feeling much better.

The effects of a cleanse are more energy, more motivation, clearer thinking, better sleep, less chance of getting a cold or flu, better digestion and an overall feeling of good health.

Essential Oils Studied for Autistic Kids

S

cientists at the Ohio State University have started a study to see if essential oils can help ease symptoms of autism.

Essential oils like lavender, sandalwood and frankincense may help children with autism handle transitions better, like going to school or bed.

It’s estimated as many as 3 out of 4 children with autism experience trouble sleeping.

Dr. Jill Hollway, assistant professor of research in psychiatry at Ohio State, says the study is a randomized, double-blind crossover of two oil mixtures to “see if they improve quality of life and sleep quality, increased relaxation and sleep efficiency.”

“We have several measures in place to study their (oils) effect,” says Dr. Hollway. “Children with autism have difficulty transitioning from one activity to another. Children with autism get anxious when routines are disrupted.”

She says the study is using two different blends of oils with 18 essential oils in total.

“All over the country, parents claim they’ve seen improvements in the quality of life and in the behavior of their children by using essential oils, but all those claims are anecdotal,” said Hollway.

“We want to see if there is any science behind it.”

Each participant gets both mixtures of oils in the study, which is sampling 35 families with 26 children age 3-10 in the local area.

“The reason we chose age three to 10 is because sleep issues change,” says Dr. Hollway.

“The first three months children get oil a or B. After a month with no oils, they start the next oil. It allows all of the participants to use both oils.”

The study takes into account some important measures and scientific results. A topical skin application will be applied to the back of a participant’s neck and feet before school. At 20 minutes before bedtime, the mixture will begin diffusing throughout the child’s bedroom and continue through the night.

About 20 minutes before bedtime, participants who can tolerate them will wear an actigraph, a watch-like device used to measure sleep quality and movement. Measurements will be taken when the actigraph is first put on, during sleep and 20 minutes after the child wakes up for their morning routine.

“We’re looking at safety and efficacy,” says Dr. Hollway. “We’re looking at side effects and looking at lab work. When the children come in, we look at their blood work.”

She says the molecules in the oils are small enough to pass the blood brain barrier but what effect that has is yet to be determined.

“We’re not sure if it’s a biological effect or it could be a psychological effect,” says Dr. Hollway.

“There’s not enough scientific studies to show that is the case.”

Essential oils are recognized as being therapeutic by affecting the nervous system and organs in the body. The study is expected to be completed in two years.

Herbal Collective, March,’16

5

Three Fruit Formula Good for Digestion

T

riphala is considered most revered Ayurvedic formula since ancient times, believed to promote health, immunity and longevity. It is the most commonly used Ayurvedic preparation as a first line of treatment of many ailments and is used as mild laxative to cleanse the colon and rejuvenate digestive tract.

This formulation rich in antioxidants has been used in a wide variety of conditions such as infections, obesity, anemia, cardiovascular diseases, serum cholesterol reduction, poor liver function, large intestine inflammation and ulcerative colitis. It is traditionally prescribed for up to a year in dosages of 1-2 grams taken twice daily for health maintenance and to prevent sickness.

Triphala literally means “three fruits” and refers to the synergic formula of Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and Bibhitaki (Termanlia belerica); these three herbs are connected to a different aspect of the three humors (‘doshas’), called ‘Vata’, ‘Pitta’ and ‘Kapha’. According to Ayurvedic theory, imbalances of these doshas are responsible for all pathological changes in the body.

Triphala is proven to have antiviral, antibacterial, anti allergic and anti-mutagenic effects (Kaur et al., 2002; Srikumar et al., 2005). A promising anti inflammatory result was obtained in clinical study of Triphala powder in a dosage of 1g/kg/b.wt against adjuvant induced arthritis and to compare with that of the non–steroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin.

The first ingredient of Triphala, Amalaki is highly nutritious and contains plenty of vitamin C, minerals and amino acids. It is a best Immuno-modulator, anti-oxidant, hypoglycemic, rejuvenator and potent herb for preserving youth. It is a mild laxative and promotes vision, helps in skin ailments and increases semen, particularly sperm count. Amalaki normalizes digestion, supports the liver and has demonstrated significant liver-restorative and cholesterol-lowering effects in research trials. It promotes the health of hair and is applied locally on scalp for falling and grey hair.

Next ingredient is Haritaki, a fruit with hepatoprotective properties. It is a safe and effective laxative, carminative and rejuvenator. Its decoction is used as gargle in sore throat, stomatitis and spongy and ulcerated gums. Haritaki helps to improve digestion, promoting the absorption of nutrients, and regulates colon function. It is particularly useful in prolapsed organs, improving the 6

Herbal Collective March,’16

strength and tone of the supporting musculature.

Third ingredient is Bhibhitaki. This herb is clinically tested for its benefit for eye diseases like myopia, corneal opacity, and immature cataract, chronic and acute infective conditions. Modern clinical research has validated the benefit of Bibhitaki in respiratory conditions including asthma, documenting its antispasmodic, anti-cough and expectorant properties. Due to its astringent taste its decoction is used to clean ulcer and as gargle for inflammatory conditions of oral cavity.

Although Triphala has a long history of use in India, it is a relatively new product in the West. To ensure the best effect with our product Sewanti Triphala plus, we have added two Ayurvedic herbs to the traditional formula to make it better suited to western physiology and target Pitta imbalances including disorders of liver and gall bladder.

One such added herb is Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri) a relative of Amalaki. It is used in the treatment of hepatobiliary disorders including hepatitis, jaundice and gall bladder stones. In the formula it removes the calcification in bile duct.

The last herb in the formula is Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) or Licorice root which is used to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues and harmonize the actions of other ingredients in a formula.

In summary, the addition of these herbs adds to Triphala’s antioxidant effect, helping to scavenge free radicals and correct inflammation.

Neelam Toprani – CEO, Padmashri Naturals Inc. (Ayurvedic researcher and formulator Sewanti Ayurvedic Series)

Detox for Chronic Conditions

T

he market place is awash these days with a bewildering array of detoxification products.

As well as the herbal and nutritional formulations being used for this purpose, homeopathy also has a significant role to play here, and there are a number of different levels at which homeopathic medicines can act to provide a significant detoxification or drainage effect.

Drainage remedies can be targeted at a particular organ, or targeted at a group of substances, or they can be targeted at a specific chemical or material substance that may be involved in the pathology.

Toxins is a general term given to accumulated waste products. These can generally be divided into three distinct groups; • Exogenous wastes – such as those ingested (chemical wastes derived from foods or drug therapy) or inhaled, • Endogenous wastes – such as those produced by bacteria, viruses or the body’s reaction to them (pus, etc.), or those produced by normal metabolism • Autogenous wastes – these relate to an individual’s genetic or miasmatic potential for generating particular kinds of wastes that have an affinity for particular varieties of tissue, such as can be seen in situations such as arthritis.

Many if not most disease processes occur either as a direct result of, or are aggravated by, accumulated wastes, which may have been processed by the body in an inappropriate manner. Commonly accepted examples of gross toxicity can be found in the liver in persons suffering from jaundice, and in the gastrointestinal tract with constipation More subtle toxin accumulation can reduce the efficiency of a vast array of physiological activities by altering intracellular and extracellular pH and disturbing the functions of numerous enzymatic and other reactions. Acute symptoms such as fevers and inflammation may be seen as attempts to rid the body of toxic materials.

Chronic diseases such as the arthritices and many skin conditions may reflect a self-generated or an inherited inability to remove wastes from the affected area, and often the autogenous wastes that these processes create can contribute to and prolong the disease.

Any condition which is either chronic in its nature, or fails to respond to treatment within a reasonable

time, should be considered for detoxification. Detoxification should also be considered (once the possibility for any serious pathology has been excluded) in cases where there is a chronic lack of vitality, the person in question suffers from continual infections and is susceptible to almost every common disease trigger, multiple allergies, continual headaches or digestive disorders, or chronic skin or respiratory disorders.

Types of detoxification remedies that can be used: 1. Organ drainage remedies – these consist of such things as Chelidonium for the liver, Berberis vulgaris for the kidneys, Ceonathus for the spleen, Phosphorus for the lungs, Strophanthus for the heart, Syzygium for the pancreas, Aloe for the rectum, Phytolacca for the lymphatic system.

2. Material specific drainage remedies – these remedies may cover specific groups of materials; for example, Silica for metallic materials, Nux vomica for stimulants and fat soluble materials such as drugs and other chemicals, Arsenicum album for food based toxins, Thuja for vaccine materials, Cadmium sulph for chemotherapy drugs.

Specific materials may be used isopathically for drainage. Substances such as Mercury in homeopathic potency (Mercurius) may be used to drain mercury from the body. Plumbum metallicum may help remove lead, Ferrum metallicum can be used to remove iron and, other metals such as copper, aluminum and zinc may be dealt with in the same way.

Colin Gillies is a homeopath in Qualicum, B.C.

HOMEOPATH Natural Solutions for Health

Colin J. Gillies, Adv. Dip. Hom., MBCSH (250) 947-0288

12-221 2nd. Avenue, W. Qualicum Beach, B.C. V9K 2S5

Email: info@colingillieshomeopath.com

www.colingillieshomeopath.com Herbal Collective

March, ‘16

7

The Effectiveness of Raw Protein

N

utritional Science provides a vast amount of research and educational materials on proteins, and have all agreed that it is vital to our survival and health! For ages we have relied on cooked or denatured products and supplements for our protein needs. Often they are predominantly comprised of soy, whey, creatine or hydrolysed collagen which is made from animal hides.

Deficiency is widely accepted as the second leading cause of all disease. Next to toxicity (the accumulation of too many toxins), virtually every disease can be directly or indirectly traced back to a lack of essential nutrients.

Our body needs enzymes, amino acids/proteins, minerals, vitamins, carbohydrates and fats, which is why these elements are called “essential nutrients”! Give our body highest-quality food and natural health products! We are what you eat—we are made of the quality of the foods we choose!

The amount of quality protein in our diet is the single most important calorie that influences our metabolic rate, favorably influencing fat loss and lean body mass. Quality protein also helps us sustain muscle during weight loss, improve muscle fitness, improve immunity, improve antioxidant function, build HDL cholesterol, and enhance insulin and leptin function - all of which contribute towards optimal fitness levels over time.

For the most utilizable protein, we are starting to

recognize that the source matters. Today we are seeing movement towards a cleaner, easier to digest, RAW and Wholefood sources of protein. So we are not just getting the protein but all the other nutrients as well!

Why Raw Proteins? Today we have a far better understanding about the effects of heat on proteins. It is a fact that even mild heat can bind Lysine which is a controlling amino acid; without unbinded Lysine we will dramatically limit the use of many essential amino acids in the food we eat. If we do not have these essential nutrients present at the same time, our body will have difficulty creating new proteins. Proteins that could be used to create stronger muscles, reconnecting tissues, rebuilding hormones, enzymes and so many others.

These proteins that are not used because they were heated have a very high chance of putrefying and turning into some of the most dangerous toxins inside the intestinal tract. Which in turn contributes to the acidifying of our bodies, causing slower intestinal transit and decreased absorption. Which in turn causes digestive illnesses such as crohns disease and colon cancer. * Famine in America—Food Storage the deadly errors • Bowel Toxemia the inescapable phenomenon Louis Hoolaeff HC HR ACS www.LeadingEdgehealth. org. See our ad..Protein - the World's Best Enhanced

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Natural Health Show April 9 Are you looking for a great way to meet people in the natural health industry?

Then the Natural Health Fair on April 9 at St. Andrews Church in Nanaimo is the place to be. The event is from 10-4 p.m. at the church located at 311 Fitzwilliam St. There will be practitioners, herbal products, speakers and much more at the venue in the Old City Quarter.

Speakers lined up to date include Klaus Ferlow, honorary master herbalist and founder of Ferlow Botanicals, who is speaking on The Miraculous Neem Tree from India that offers better plant health, human health, animal health and environmental health.

He is also launching his new book on "Neem: Nature's Healing Gift to Humanity" and will have Neem products available at the fair.

There will also be a speech on ‘Learn How to Experience Your Mental Bliss – Naturally.’ Do mental health conditions require complex medical treatments?

Audience members will be captivated as they listen to Celeste Stephan tell her family’s incredible story that resulted in the discovery of a simple, holistic solution that is literally changing thousands of lives.

Eric Sveinson will then expound on how and why this discovery is astounding doctors and researchers around the world, and the science behind how simple key nutrients are having a profound effect on Mental Health.

Sveinson and Stephan represent Truehope Canada, which provides natural solutions to mental and physical well being.

More speakers are being added and will be listed on the Herbal Collective’s ‘Events’ section with information on the fair.

Besides the listed speakers which are also exhibiting, the other exhibitors to date are: Lobelia’s Lair – a metaphysical store, homeopath Colin Gillies, Glenda Neufeld of Thermography Vancouver Island, Gregg Turner with Solution Innovators and Lucy Taylor of Phoenix Healing who is offering metabolic age testing and compass scanning.

Several other exhibitors are joining but were not able to confirm by press time.

Those who can’t attend will be able to access videos and articles on the event as members of the Herbal Club.

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Herbal Collective March,’16

9

Spring Herbs for Energy

By Yarrow Willard t is getting close to the end of the dark and cold northern season. In the next few months life will be unfurling its leaves and reaching out for the sun after its long winters rest. With this burst of Spring energy comes a renewed source drive in ourselves and the world around us. This natural regeneration of life makes it the opportune time of year to enhance our health.

Traditionally at this time of year people would be breaking their winter fast and grazing on the young shoots and fresh greens as they started to become available. Many of these first spring plants naturally stimulate our bodies cleansing mechanisms. Specifically the liver and eliminatory channels, helping to shed the accumulation of toxins and stagnation that has built up over the winter season.

Even though we have the ability to add wild plants to our diet, for the most part we look to choose our foods from the conveniences of the modern ecosystem of urbanized society. Selecting from that which is available in our local grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants.

This leaves us with the predicament of being once removed from what the natural rhythm the world around us is trying to educate our bodies with. If we choose to seek upgraded health and vitality, we are best to take reference to what nature offers in each season and mimic it the best we can with our choices and dietary habits. This offers the body a deeper education into how to show up in the world and be more adaptable with each changing season.

Some specific foods and ideas that will help educate our body this spring are: Young greens, sprouts and shoots (Small leafed Lettuces, Arugula, Pea shoots, Sunflower sprouts, Dandelion greens, Beet greens, Bok Choy, Endive, Asparagus, Chives).

- Over-wintered root vegetables (Carrots, Beets, Turnips, Rutabaga, Parsnips, Onions, Garlic).

For the Omnivore, quality sources of spring eggs, fish, lamb, chicken or wild meats.

Super Greens and Seaweeds that cleanse and

I

Dr. Doug Kuramoto Naturopathic Physician

West Coast Naturopathic Medicine Ltd. 525 Pioneer Crescent Parksville, B.C. V9P 1V1 Tel: (250) 954-1955 10

Herbal Collective

Please note the Nanaimo office is now closed March,’16

invigorate the body systems (Chlorella, Spirulina, Moringa, Wheat Grass, Alfalfa, Nori, Bull kelp, Dulse, Wakame ) Detoxifying Clays and Earths– Internally (Bentonite Clay, Zeolite Clay, Diatomaceous Earth) or Externally (French Green, Bentonite Clay).

Spring Herbs (Nettles, Cleavers, Fir and Cedar tips, Alfalfa, Horsetail, Dandelion, Burdock, Oregon Grape, and Yellow dock, Lemon Balm, Oregano, Usnea, poplar buds, ect.)

Edible young shoots and greens from our wild lands and disturbed soil. (Miner’s Lettuce, Chickweed, Sheep sorrel, Yellow Salsify, Dandelion greens, Horsetail flowering shoots, Lambs quarter, Amaranth, Fireweed, Ostrich Fern fiddle heads, Fir tips, Maple blossoms and pollen rich flowers) Herbal Teas, Tinctures and Elixirs can be a great way to assist in cleansing the body. Some suggestions from Harmonic Arts are: Green Qi – Electrolyte and mineral rich. A fresh spring blend using the unique bounty of seasonal west coast herbs and seaweed. (also wonderful served chilled with lemon). Cleanse Blend - Gently helping to remove toxins from the body. Working on the liver, kidneys, blood and colon. Atmospheri-tea - A calming, yet uplifting blend that helps strengthen body, mind, spirit connections. Seasonal Response - A flavourful and nourishing way to ease the bodies reactions to allergies.

Kick Start! - A robust and flavourful energy drink that makes a great coffee substitute. Elevate - A creamy vanilla cardamon elixir blend designed to give the Endocrine and Nervous system support. Combination tincture from Harmonic Arts that are ideal in the spring season are: Green Spirits, Liver Tonic, Radio Protect, Body Balance, and Allergy ease.

When we connect into this basic rhythm of natures sun cycle and focus on what best fits the season we are living in, we actively give our bodies the advantage of deeper wisdom and health. It is all to common for us to fall into what is comfortable and convenient within our sociological structure. This often ingrained safety/survival mechanism is not conducive to creating the quality of health and vitality we are capable of.

Take the opportunity this year to better yourself with a seasonally based diet and lifestyle that engages your senses, activates your body, and elevates your experience of health and wellness.

For more details on spring cleansing, herbal blogs and video, or to connect with quality plant based nutrition contact Harmonic Arts at www.harmonicarts.ca

Got a Recipe to Contribute?

Email info@herbalcollective.ca

Beet/Vegetable Chips These make a great crunchy snack and are a healthy alternative to potato or corn chips. Also perfect for the grain-free foodies. Try dipping them in guacamole!

Cauliflower Pizza Shell or Breadsticks

Ingredients: • 1 bunch of large beets (any color) • Coconut oil (melted) • Salt to taste Preheat oven to 325. Thinly slice beets. If you have a mandolin, it's helpful. Place in a large bowl and coat with coconut oil. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and place beets evenly on the paper.

Stack the trays (this keeps the beets flat). Bake for 20 minutes. Rotate the trays and bake for another 15 minutes. Serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container Note: Try other vegetables like carrots, turnips, potatoes (of course).

1/2 head of cauliflower, grated 1 whole egg, plus one egg white, lightly beaten 1/4 cup 2% shredded mozzarella cheese Dried basil,oregano and parsley 1 teaspoon olive oil Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix all ingredients together (except oil) in a large bowl until evenly distributed.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and use olive oil to grease the parchment paper.

Spread and flatten the cauliflower mixture on the parchment paper evenly - about 1 inch thick. Square off the edges so it looks like a rectangle or square.

Bake for 40 minutes until slightly dried out, browning, and firm to the touch.

Remove from oven and using a spatula carefully peel away from parchment paper. Flip over and return to oven for 10 more minutes. serve with dipping sauce i used some marinara sauce on the side.

Herbal Collective

March,’16

13

Herb of the Month

Milk Thistle for Liver Protection

By Klaus Ferlow ilk Thistle has been used me-

M

dicinally for thou-

sands of years and it stands out for its ability to gently protect the liver against many toxins and there it is called “liver's protective powerhouse.”

The seeds of milk thistle (also known as St Mary's thistle) contain a group of antioxidant compounds collectively to the name silymarin. Your liver and gallbladder are vital for your digestive and detoxification process.

In the 1960's, interest in milk thistle was rekindled when researchers isolated a complex of chemicals from the herbs seeds. A combination of flavonoligans believed to be responsible for the hepatic activity, was first isolated from the ripe seeds. Milk thistle is a clear example in which scientific investigation has confirmed the historical use of a herbal product.

Compounds in milk thistle protect liver cells from damage caused by alcohol, acetaminophen and some form of hepatitis and can also be used to prevent or treat effects of fatty foods, liver damage from toxic exposure, chronic liver disease, certain types of liver cirrhosis, for headaches and skin problems associated with poor function. Some researchers have suggested that milk thistle may also be useful in the management of psoriasis.

Adverse effects of silymarin appear to be very rare. Because it increases bile flow, it my cause mild diarrhea in some individuals. Additional benefits are: • colic • indigestion, bowel disorders • jaundice • dermatitis • diabetes

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Herbal Collective March,’16

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

gallstones high cholesterol inflammation nausea obesity menstrual pain stomach disease uterine disease spleen disease mushroom poisoning protects the kidneys adrenal disorders boost immune system

Studies from Europe demonstrate that milk thistle extract extends lives, improves liver function, and relieves symptoms associated with cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, jaundice and poisoning No contraindications are associated with this herb, even in larger doses. Despite its safety, individuals who have liver disease or are treated for cancer should discuss the use of any dietary supplement with their health care provider!

History of Milk Thistle Originally milk thistle is a stout, annual or biennial plant found in dry, rocky soils in Southern and Western Europe and it is now naturalized to the

east coast of North America, California and South America. The branched shining-brown stems grows to 1 to 3 feet high and bears alternate, dark green, shiny leaves with spiny, scalloped edges and white spots along the veins. The upper leaves clasp the stem. Large, solitary, purple flower heads subtended by spiny bracts appear June to August.

Nature’s Potent Panacea

How to use Milk Thistle Seeds: are a good source of protein and amino acids, can be added on to cereals or smoothies. Grind them and cook with oatmeal, or substitute milk thistle for flax seeds in recipes.

t Kills Germs, Colds, Flu, Fungal Infections and Much More t Increases Immunity t Helps Stomach and Lung disorders, Teeth and Gums t Reduces Pain, Speeds Healing

Smoothies: ½ cup oats, 1 banana, 1 dried fig, 1 teaspoon ground Milk thistle seeds ½ teaspoon vanilla powder, 500ml Almond milk or other milk of choice. Makes a lovely breakfast drink

Hedd Wyn is the original Certified Organic Wild Mediterranean Oregano Oil. Get the results that only Hedd Wyn Oregano Oil can provide.

Tea: simmer one teaspoon crushed milk thistle seeds and one cup water for ten minutes, strain and drink one to two cups a day Tincture: available as single tincture 50ml or combo tincture 100ml, 15 – 25 drops starting one time in the morning on empty stomach, dosage can later be increased Extract: follow suggestion on the label Powder: take one teaspoon powered seeds with water, four to five times a day Infusion: steep one teaspoon seeds in ½ cup water, take one to one to a half cups a day, a mouthful at a time Klaus Ferlow, HMH, HA, author, innovator, lecturer, researcher, writer, founder of Ferlow Botanicals and NEEM RESEARCH, Honorary Master Herbalist (HMH), Professional Herbal Advocate (HA), board member of the Health Action Network Society and member of a variety of organizations, co-author of the book “7steps to dental health”, author of the book “Neem: Nature's Healing Gift to Humanity.”

It is not my intention to make specific claims. Any attempt to diagnose, prevent or treat illness should go under the direction of your health care provider. www.ferlowbotanicals.com, klausferlow1@gmail.com

Best tasting, Most effective, >80% Carvacrol, Increased Bio-availability, Non GMO, Vegan, Gluten, Soy and Nut Free

Available at Fine Health Food Stores

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